Master of German ‘Monster Trawler’ Faces Seven Charges in Ireland

The master of the German-registered fishing trawler MFV Helen Mary faces seven charges under sea-fisheries law following an inspection in Irish waters, marking another chapter in the vessel’s controversial history.

On February 16, 2025, officers aboard a European Fisheries Control Agency’s (EFCA) Offshore Patrol Vessel detected suspected infringements during a Joint Deployment Plan operation in Ireland’s Exclusive Economic Zone.

“The charges include illegal equipment use, a non-compli…