Vessel Electronic Monitoring (VMS & ERS)

VMS & ERS

VMS and ERS became mandatory for all European fishing vessels in excess of 12 metres length overall with effect from 1 January 2012. 

Vessel Monitoring System (VMS)

All Irish fishing vessels with a LOA greater than 12 metres that proceed to sea must have VMS fitted and operational. 

If you require a VMS unit to be installed on your vessel please complete the form Irish VMS Contract 2023 and return to jim.shalloo@sfpa.ie 

Electronic Recording & Reporting Systems (ERS)

Irish fishing vessels greater than 12 metres must be fitted with ERS (Electronic Log Book). The SFPA currently provide the laptop and software for this purpose. If you require ERS for your vessel you need to apply for a Security Certificate first. Please complete the following two forms Request for Webservice Client Certificate and WebService Agreement and then return to jim.shalloo@sfpa.ie 

There are exemptions in place for one groups of vessels:

• Vessels used exclusively for aquaculture, in accordance with Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 404/2011, CHAPTER II, Section 1, Article 36, para 2 

The above groups of vessels have been exempted from the  requirements outlined in Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 and Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 404/2011 in relation to ERS

Exchange of information

The Irish ERS hub is exchanging ERS data with Norway regarding Irish fishing vessels operating in Norwegian waters and Norwegian fishing vessels operating in Irish waters through the European Hub since February 2011. The Irish ERS hub is live with the European Commission Data Exchange Highway since 26 October 2011. This allows Ireland to exchange relevant ERS data with other European Member States and Norway.

Contact us

Email: Jim.Shalloo@sfpa.ie
Tel: +353 (0) 23 885 9300