Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA)
Niall O'Rahelly is a highly experienced professional in the aquaculture and marine biology sectors, currently serving as the Shellfish Environment Manager at the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) since October 2023. Niall has a solid background in managing national sanitary surveys, liaising with port operations, and overseeing bacteriological sampling. Prior to this role, Niall was the Ireland Aquaculture Community Manager at HATCH, where contributions focused on advancing sustainable seafood production technologies. Niall's experience also includes serving as a Technical Manager for Global Trust Certification and a Fish Health Inspector at Cefas, managing various quality programs and inspections. Earlier career roles included hatchery technician positions and aquatic species production, supported by a Bachelor of Science in Ecology from University College Cork and additional qualifications in leadership, management, and aquaculture.
Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA)
The SFPA was established under the provisions of the Sea-Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006 and is Ireland's competent authority for Seafood Safety and Sea-Fisheries Protection. The Sea Fisheries Protection Authority is committed to the effective and fair regulation of the seafishing and seafood sectors that fall within our mandate. This means all fishing vessels operating within Irelands 200‐mile limit, Irish fishing vessels wherever they operate, and all seafood produced in Ireland wherever it is marketed.” Based in Clonakilty, County Cork, the SFPA has a number of offices in the major ports around the coast, at Killybegs, Ros a’ Mhíl, An Daingean, Castletownbere, Dunmore East, Clonakilty, Howth and Greencastle. The continued health of Ireland’s economy and coastal communities is dependent upon our natural resources being used sustainably. It is important for Ireland to have well managed fisheries and the SFPA will continue to engage with the fishing industry to promote compliance with the essential requirements of the legislation. SFPA supports a sustainable and profitable commercial fishing sector, while protecting and conserving fisheries resources for long-term exploitation. The SFPA have introduced a confidential telephone line: 1800 76 76 76. We encourage anyone who is aware of any suspect activity to contact us on this number with the relevant information.