North Atlantic Maritime Project (Operation Eggshell) October 2016
Joint Days of Action took place on both sides of the border on Wednesday 5th October 2016 and on Friday 7th October 2016, focused on the Irish fishing industry
The primary objective of the operation was to focus on labour exploitation in the fishing industry. Emphasis was placed on any indicators of human trafficking that were apparent. Specially trained officers from the Human Trafficking Investigation and Coordination Unit and the Garda National Protective Services Bureau, were on the ground for this operation at both Castletownbere and Howth. These officers focused on finding people who demonstrated any indicators of human trafficking, particularly in relation to the crews of the fishing vessels.
The Day of Action on Wednesday 5th October 2016 was coordinated by An Garda Síochána, the Revenue Commissioners, The Workplace Relations Commission Inspectorate, The Irish Navy and The Sea Fisheries Protection Authority. The Workplace Relations Commission Inspectorate led the inspections in port using powers granted to them under Section 27 of the Workplace Relations Act 2015. Members of An Garda Síochána accompanied and assisted them in these inspections as "authorised officers” as defined under this Act.
The Day of Action on Friday 7th October 2016 was coordinated by the Police Service of Northern Ireland and partners, and focused on the port at Kilkeel, Co. Down.
Full details of the operation are contained in a Press Release issued by An Garda Síochána which may be accessed HERE.