Lobster fishermen off the west and north-west coast claim that larger vessels, mainly from the Killibegs pelagic fleet, are responsible for the loss of one hundred and seventy lobster and crab pots, costing about €10,000.
Mr Michael Kelly, chairman of the North and West Lobster Fishermen's Co-Op said the larger boats, which they call the "tank fleet," are operating inside "baselines".
All boats in the fleet are given baselines for certain types of fish and are not allowed to fish inside these baselines. Mr Kelly said that the tank fleet is ignored by both the Department of the Marine and the Naval Service and that limits are not being adhered to.
The potmen have called on the Marine Department to arrange a meeting to resolve the crux. Mayo TD Michael Ring has called on the Minister for Communications and Natural resources, Mr Ahern, to take action and ensure that potmen are protected. A spokesperson for Bord Iascaigh Mhara said they have no regulatory power in the matter but try to facilitate both sides to seek a solution.