Fianna Fáil TD to defy new fisheries legislation if not amended

A FIANNA FÁIL backbench TD has said that he will defy the Government whip and vote against new fisheries legislation if it is not radically amended.

Denis O’Donovan said that the Sea-Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Bill 2005 contained draconian powers that will drive fishermen out of business.

In particular, the Cork TD has objected to what he describes as disproportionate penalties for relatively minor offences, including large fines and the confiscation of trawlers.