Killybegs is among six sea fishery harbours around the coast where an ongoing 48-hour work stoppage by fisheries inspectors and clerical staff threatens to affect the landing of fish catches.
The work stoppage, which began at midnight, involves FORSA members at the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority.
FORSA says the dispute involves the findings of an independent review of the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority and, what the union insists, are attempts by management to implement 47 recommendations without the input of staff representatives.
Niall Shanahan, communications officer with FORSA, has been telling Ocean FM News his union’s view of the background to this dispute.
Response from Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority:
In response to a query from Ocean FM News, the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority said it is making best efforts to minimise disruption to industry and seafood trade, putting contingency plans in place for its duration.
This includes a request to Forsa to confirm that minimum cover will be provided on these days, as is required under the Code of Practice on Disputes Procedures.
However, it said some disruption of SFPA services may be unavoidable and it acknowledged industry’s assurances regarding its assistance and co-operation at this time.
The SFPA said it remains committed to seeking as early a resolution to matters as possible, which are before the next meeting (Friday, 28th January 2022) of the Oversight Body, the dispute resolution mechanism agreed by all parties to the public service agreement, Building Momentum, including SFPA and Forsa.
