Sinn Féin TD for Kerry Pa Daly has called for a major overhaul of the state’s Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) following the announcement of strike action by staff.

Teachta Daly said:

“It has been Sinn Féin’s position that the government must ensure that the recommendations of the PWC Review of the Organisational Capability of the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) are implemented. 

“We have also been clear that ongoing and meaningful dialogue between the SFPA, the Naval Service and An Garda Síochána with our fishing communities is paramount.

“It is clear from this strike action that there is significant internal turmoil in the SFPA. The Minister needs to intervene in this dispute and ensure that the fishing industry can continue uninterrupted during the period ahead.

“Staff in the SFPA are planning a 24-hour work stoppage from tonight with further strike action to follow. This dispute will escalate and government intervention is urgently required.”