IFI gain conviction against man with salmon and net who attempted escape in tractor

Inland Fisheries Ireland(IFI) has gained a conviction against a man for illegal salmon fishing.

Anthony Needham of Bundouglas, Co. Galway was observed netting for salmon at sea off the townland of Bundouglas by IFI officers.

They intercepted Mr. Needham as he exited the shore in a tractor with an 85m monofilament net and salmon. 

Mr. Needham failed to comply with instructions to stop for inspection and drove the tractor in a reckless manner, which endangered officers, in an attempt to evade apprehension. 

Commenting, Dr Rachel Cooper IFI’s regional director in Galway said: “The actions of this man were inexcusable.

“Illegal salmon netting negatively impacts native wild Atlantic salmon stocks, and is a threat to this protected species, which has been in alarming decline.

“I commend our officers for their ongoing efforts in protecting our precious fisheries resources.”

Mr Needham was convicted on multiple charges, which included assaulting an authorised officer and obstructing an authorised officer.

He was found to have been in possession or control of a net, and in possession of unlawfully captured salmon.

Mr Needham was fined a total of €1,000 and ordered to pay €500 towards IFI’s legal costs.

The case was heard at Galway District Court on December 9th, 2024.

The incident took place on June 23rd, 2023.

IFI officers also gave evidence at a special sitting of Galway District Court in an adjoining Garda case which arose from the incident. 

This related to a charge of endangerment – intentionally or recklessly engaging in conduct which creates a substantial risk of death or serious harm to another person.

Mr Needham was convicted and fined €500 for this offence.

IFI urges the public to report instances of illegal fishing, water pollution, fish kills, or habitat destruction to its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.