SFPA launches nationwide information sessions on ERS rollout and revised control rules for vessels over 12m, running from January to early March
SFPA Begins Rollout Of National Industry Information Sessions
The Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) has begun a nationwide series of information sessions for the fishing industry, with events running from January until early March.
The programme opened in Co. Wexford and is designed to support fishermen and industry stakeholders as new regulatory requirements take effect.
The SFPA says the sessions aim to improve accessibility for crews and vessel owners across the country, ensuring they receive guidance on updated obligations under EU and Irish fisheries control legislation.
New ERS Hardware Introduced For Vessels Over 12 Metres
A key element of the programme is the rollout of new Electronic Recording System (ERS) hardware for vessels over 12 metres. The equipment will operate the ieCatch electronic logbook software.
This section of the information sessions is led by the SFPA’s ICT Team and focuses on helping skippers understand and use the new digital reporting tools required for compliance.
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Updates On Revised Fisheries Control Regulation
The SFPA is also providing detailed updates on changes to the Fisheries Control Regulation for vessels over 12 metres. These sessions are delivered by the authority’s Food and Fisheries Support Unit.
The updates cover:
- What is legally required as of January 2026
- What Masters must prepare for ahead of 2027
Key focus areas include Marking and Identification, EU Logbook Requirements, Prior Notification of Arrival (PNO) and Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS). The SFPA says these are essential components of the revised control framework that operators must understand in advance of upcoming deadlines.
Sessions Held Across Key Coastal Locations
To ensure wide industry participation, the SFPA is hosting sessions in Wexford, Waterford, Glengarriff, Dingle, Dublin, Galway, Killybegs and Greencastle. The authority said these locations were chosen to maximise accessibility for fishermen and industry representatives nationwide.
Registration Open For Industry Stakeholders
The SFPA is encouraging all relevant stakeholders to attend and confirmed that registration remains open. Anyone wishing to participate can email [email protected] or contact their local Port Office for further information.
