The first arrest of a Spanish trawler since the new EU regulations came into effect.
The arrest of the Cova De Ballea for alleged under recording of its catch was carried out by the Naval Service vessel LE Aoife 65 miles west of the Blasket Islands. The trawler was escorted to Castletownbere, Co Cork. The arrest was effected outside the Irish Box. The new EU regulations allow up to 40 Spanish vessels into the Irish Box at any one time.