Hefty fines have been handed out to two Portsmouth fishermen for obstructing fishery officers. The case went before SouthamptonMagistrates Court where the two were ordered to pay fines and costs in a case brought by the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA).
Magistrates heard how Phantom P-300 was fishing in Southampton Water in August last year when skipper Kevin Smith positioned the boat to obstruct inspecting officers, while crewman Aston Stallard discarded the catch over the side. The obstruction of Fisheries Officers and failure to comply with their requests is an offence.
‘This type of illegal activity and the behaviour of these individuals will not be tolerated and we will pursue such matters robustly through court,’ said IFCA Deputy Chief Officer, Neil Richardson. ‘Minimum size legislation is an essential management tool to ensure that there is enough stock left on the grounds to support the fishery and the fishermen in the region who rely on them. Southern IFCA is committed to protecting the fishery to ensure healthy seas, sustainable fisheries and a viable industry.’
Each of the fishermen was ordered to pay fines and costs of £5195.
