Inshore Ireland Vol 8 nr 5 Oct-Nov 2012 by Inshore Ireland Publishing

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The Marine & Freshwater Environment Publication

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October/November 2012 Vol 8 Issue 5

ONLINE EDITION

You can now view August/September issue on www.inshore-ireland.com or you can follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/inshore_ireland and Facebook www.facebook.com/InshoreIreland

Irish citizens finally have enforceable rights under environmental directive Gillian Mills

he Aarhus Convention has entered into force in Ireland, signifying an important step forward for environmental democracy in this country. Formally known as the Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters, Ireland signed up in 1998 but took until June 20 this year to ratify. The Convention upholds the right of every person to have access to information about the environment; the right to participate in decision-making, and the right of access to justice in environmental matters. It also sets minimum standards in these areas, and by becoming a party to the Convention, Irish authorities are now legally bound to respect these standards.

the interest of economic, political and sometimes social policies. Becoming a party to the Convention is a very important step in removing that veil of secrecy,” he added. “I congratulate the government for taking the necessary steps to ratify. Now we must raise public awareness and train staff in public authorities for the Convention to be effectively implemented,” he stressed.

Exploitation of fossil fuels

Meanwhile within days

of this milestone, a report was launched in Dublin on Ireland’s oil and gas resources and how they could be managed for the people’s benefit. Liquid Assets aims to provide an alternative source of “reliable, referenced information” against a backdrop of “myths and misinformation mostly created by the oil industry and successive governments” remarked Criostóir MacCuric of the Shell to Sea campaign. Invited speaker Paul Murphy MEP, referred to the

report as “extremely valuable. “Because of campaigns such as Shell to Sea, there is now relatively widespread awareness that at the very least, the terms in which Irish oil and gas were given away were indeed generous.” He added that the report detailed in a very “backed up way” the extent of that generosity. “What is revealed is an absolute scandal,” he said.

Sharing the wealth

Dr Andy Storey, lecture in development studies and

political economics in UCD, said the report’s principle contribution was it explains how the wealth of this country “could be and should be shared”. “It begs the question how can global justice best be advanced, and how can we balance national claims against global responsibilities?” Regardless of how that is answered, he said the report makes the extremely valuable point that leaving »» page 2

Rights upheld in law

“In a democracy, people have the right to know and should have easy access to information,” commented Michael Ewing, Coordinator of the Environmental Pillar. “You might be looking for information about a development activity in your area, or trying to participate in a planning decision-making process, or simply trying to find out if the river you swim in every summer is polluted. The great news is that your right to access relevant information and to participate is now upheld in law. He added that public participation helps make decision-makers more accountable and environmental decisionmaking more transparent. “In the past, this was often denied or avoided in

Tall Ships 2012: A ‘round’ of square riggers viewed from the Matt Talbot Bridge, Dublin City (see page 23).

Photo G Mills

inshore ireland October/November 2012

news Study findings

[see page 9] companies are accumulating scores of prospects, waiting for international commodity prices to increase and the technology to extract to improve.’ The authors contend that across the world, governments are redrafting their exploration licensing terms ‘and in some cases are revoking

or renegotiating existing contracts with oil companies on the basis that these deals represented a corrupt transfer of sovereign assets to private companies. They add that Ireland is ‘out of step with these global developments’ but that it is not too late to take action. ‘Licences already offered can be

How we got here

industry to share its knowledge and technical expertise with Statoil. 1977: Fine Gael/Labour coalition loses power. Keating’s successor, Fianna Fáil’s Des O’Malley, was ideologically opposed to creating a State-owned oil company. 1979: With the onset of the international oil crisis, O’Malley reluctantly establishes Irish National Petroleum Corporation (INPC) in response to pressure from some oil-producing countries which would only sell their oil to a State company. The INPC was precluded from engaging in exploration or production. As a result, the Irish State did not develop expertise as the Norwegians had done. Instead, the Petroleum Affairs Division (PAD) of the Department of Industry and Commerce became the ad-hoc administrative centre for the oil and gas industry in Ireland. 1970s-1980s: Oil and gas finds in Irish waters were regarded as commercially unviable. However people in the industry knew that ‘uneconomic’ or ‘sub-economic’

fields can become economic through improvements in technology and rising energy prices. 1987& 1992: Energy Minister Ray Burke and finance minister Bertie Ahern make substantial changes to the 1975 terms. The new fiscal terms included: »» abolition of royalty payments »» 100% tax write-off against profits on capital expenditure for exploration, development and production extending back 25 years before the state of production »» abolition of all other State participation in oil and gas development Questions were raised by several TDs in 1987, described by Labour’s Dick Spring as ‘an act of economic treason.’ Burke defended the changes saying existing licensing terms were unattractive to the exploration companies and added he was ‘gravely concerned’ that exploration might disappear from Irish waters altogether. 1992: Finance minister Bertie Ahern introduces new terms within the 1992 Finance Act, cutting oil industry corporation tax from 50% to 25%. The terms allowed oil and gas to be delivered at ‘market prices’ unlike the 1975 terms which allowed prior approval by the Minster of all contracts for the sale of gas, and gave the Minister powers to require delivery of petroleum to specified purchasers to satisfy national requirements. The 1975 terms also gave the Minister control, during emergencies, over supplies of petroleum. These safeguards were removed with the onset of the 1992

»» from page 1

the resource in the hands of private corporations “gets us nowhere”. “We need to assume public ownership of those resources and then decide how best to make use of them.”

1971: Marathon Oil discovers gas off Kinsale, Co Cork. Gas was extracted under a once-off deal made in 1973 between the government and Marathon Oil. Senior civil servants argued that the deal was weighted too heavily in favour of the industry. A public outcry became an issue in the 1973 general election. As a result, Resources Protection Campaign was set up to apply further pressure. 1975: The Minister for Industry and Commerce, Justin Keating introduces new terms, influenced by Norway’s hugely successful creation of an indigenous oil and gas industry. These include: »» a 50% maximum State stake in any commercial fund »» production royalties of 8% to 16% and »» production bonuses on significant finds. »» application of a standard

The report challenges the argument that Ireland’s terms can be changed later, once any potential has been proven. ‘Unfortunately the government is rapidly awarding licences for the remaining blocks that are likely to contain commercial quantities of oil and gas. As the map shows,

corporation tax of 50% Companies were required to drill at least one exploratory well within three years and to surrender 50% of the original licensed area they were granted within four years. Crucially, the State would gain a ‘carried interest’ by taking a share of the project after a discovery and thus would not have to bear the costs of exploration. The terms envisaged the formation of a State oil company similar to Norway’s Statoil, if significant finds were made. They also ensured that the government would have full access to the exploration data, allowing it to make independent decisions about the likely success of any potential development. When oil was discovered in Norway in the 1960s, the energy companies played down the find. However, the Norwegian State drove a tough bargain with them, taking up to 90% of the profits, established Statoil and forced the

Marine Institute Foras na Mara

Ireland's National Agency for Marine Research and Innovation

Our Ocean

A Shared Resource

changed, but only with considerable political will and some risk. In reality, future Irish governments will be extremely reluctant to do so. Unless the terms are changed now, all or most of the areas likely to contain oil and gas will have been licensed exclusively to companies for decades to come.’

terms. This means that the State will have to pay full price for all oil and gas from its own waters, and will have no control over supply, even in emergencies. Moreover the new licences allow companies to hold onto leases on their licensed terms for up to 30 years in the event of a commercial find. Companies are entitled to rely on their own data and their own plans in assessing commerciality, and the Minister must grant the lease if requested. With the discovery of the Corrib gas field by Enterprise Oil, the industry intensified its lobbying. Enterprise bought a table at the Fianna Fail tent at the Galway Races and made large contributions to that party. Fianna Fáil Minister for Marine and Natural Resources, Michael Woods, supported Enterprise’s decision not to hire Irish workers (who were unionised) on its Petrolia rig, overturning an earlier minister’s insistence that Enterprise hire Irish workers or lose tax breaks. In this way, the energy companies gained control over exploration data, petroleum pricing and supply, and even whether to sell the oil and gas in Ireland or to export it. Ireland’s oil and gas reserves have been effectively ceded to energy corporations into the distant future – or until such time as the Irish people reclaim their property and renegotiate the terms, as has been done in many other countries. Liquid Assets – Irelands’ oil and gas resources and how they could be managed for the people’s benefit. www. shelltosea.com/booklet

Cumann na gCurach Ghaoth Dobhair (Gweedore Currach Club), arriving at Tráigh na mBlathán Pier on Gola Island after completing their annual sponsored row from Kincasslagh Pier. The proceeds went this year to Crumlin Childrens Hospital Photo Máirín Uí Fhearraigh

www.marine.ie Sorting the catch at Gola Island

Photo Máirín Uí Fhearraigh

inshore ireland October/November 2012

comment

Fracking and fluoridation – how safe are these practices?

Dear Editor,

e welcome the call by Declan Waugh (Inshore Ireland 8.4) for the fluoridation of Irish drinking water to cease. The addition of fluoride to the public drinking water has been a concern for the Irish Doctors’ Environmental Association (IDEA) since its inception in 1997. IDEA was a member of the Forum on Fluoridation which was established by the Department of Health to examine the issue of fluoridation and report in 2002. IDEA did not agree with the practice of fluoridating drinking water at that time and a minority report was included in the final report to acknowledge that position. There has been no development in the interim to cause us to alter this position. Dispensing fluoride via drinking water means that the actual daily intake by any individual is unknown: It varies, as it depends on the amount of water a person consumes each day. No other medication is dispensed on the basis of thirst. The report by the Scientific Committee on Health and Environmental Risks, issued in 2001 found that the ‘Scientific evidence for the protective effect of topical fluoride application is strong, while the respective data for systemic application via drinking water are less convincing. No obvious advantage appears in favour of water fluoridation as compared with topical application of fluoride.’ IDEA believes that concern for passively improving the dental health of all groups of people by fluoridating drinking water supplies fails to address the underlying causes of poor dental health. Excess dietary sugar, poor general nutrition and poor dental hygiene are often related to the deprivation and socio-economic inequity that persists and appears to be increasing in our society. We cannot address socio-economic problems in our society by chemicals. There is no health promotion programme at present advocating good dental hygiene, which is what we need. IDEA believes that there are already too many chemicals in our environment without adding more, and that Ireland should now stop adding fluoride to its water supplies. Instead, the country should promote improved nutrition and dental hygiene as a more common sense approach to improving dental health, while strenuously attempting to eliminate or reduce social inequity. IDEA is also concerned at the impact of fluoride on living organisms and supports Mr Waugh’s request for a comprehensive environmental assessment of the impact of this chemical. The impact of fluoridation on our obligations under the Water Framework Directive also requires to be assessed.

EPA would be doing itself a favour by putting an end, once and for all, to the suspicions voiced by some from the anti-fracking side. Already there is growing unease in many of the communities here ear-marked for fracking trials. Surely, if anything has been learned from the public relations shambles that the Corrib project has become, is that the only way to win the confidence of those with legitimate concerns about the potential risks of fracking is to engage, inform and debate. Transparency is key. This is a trait sadly lacking in many State bodies. It is still not too late in the growing fracking debate to avoid a repetition of what transpired in Bellanaboy: the wrenching apart of a tightly-knit community and a bitter legacy of polarised opinion. The template for best practice does not have to be invented here. It is already available - the Norwegians have managed to do it (Inshore Ireland, 8.3) with marked success, and the EPA – which will oversee fracking in Ireland, would do well to look to that country for

inspiration as to how to minimise future conflict.

comment

at the Department of Geology and Petroleum Geology at the University of Aberdeen. To its credit, the EPA document his is the third is timely and informative and consecutive issue of manages to be a user-friendly Inshore Ireland this year guide to the key environmental to feature hydraulic issues impacted by the fracking fracking, and the second to process. The publication also feature water fluoridation delves into how this process – two subjects that are is handled in the USA and attracting the interest - and throughout Europe – essential concern - of many readers. information for Irish readers. Under the Your View banner, Since its publication however some County Cavan-based GP and eyebrows have been raised by the spokesperson for the Fermanagh fact that the EPA commissioned Fracking Awareness Network Aberdeen University to compile (FFAN), Dr Carroll O’Dolan, this particular study. paints a dismal picture of how he Here again the much sought after believes the process of high volume twin objectives of openness and hydraulic fracking might impact on the environment and on public transparency come starkly into focus. health. Was it a wise decision to opt Elsewhere in this issue we for the University of Aberdeen highlight a report by the Environmental Protection Agency - with its links to the North Sea petroleum industry – to write this (EPA) that summarises the report? And it would be interesting current knowledge and potential environmental impacts of fracking. to know more about the tendering process, i.e. what other bodies This study was prepared for tendered for the job? the EPA by Dr Dave Healey, a By clarifying these questions, the senior lecturer in Geomechanics Gery Flynn

Fluoridation impacts

On the subject of water fluoridation, we also feature an opinion piece by internationallyrenowned scientist, Dr Roger Masters. The questions he raises is enough to make anyone particularly with very young children – sit bolt upright and take notice! His findings, – if true – on the long-term effects of mass fluoridation are, to say the least, terrifying. His declared support for Irish anti-fluoridation campaigner and environmental scientist Declan Waugh (Inshore Ireland 8.4) and his contention that the key ingredient of fluoridation in Ireland and the USA – is “highly dangerous” raises immediate questions for both the Department of Health and the EPA. Ireland’s freshwater resource is delicate and precious – we must progress carefully.

Call for Submissions to New BIM Strategy BIM is the statutory agency with responsibility for the development of the Irish seafood industry. Currently, BIM is commencing the preparation of a new three year strategic plan for 2013-2015. As part of this process, BIM is inviting interested parties, whether individuals or groups with an interest in the seafood industry, to make submissions on the sector or on BIM’s work programmes in support of the sector. These submissions will be considered as part of the process to develop the new strategy. The new strategy will be developed having regard to: n Food Harvest 2020 n BIM’s Strategy for 2010-2012 Delivering on the Potential of Irish Seafood n Food Harvest Milestones 1 and 2 reports

These publications are available online at www.bim.ie or www.agriculture.gov.ie

Have your say BIM welcomes any comments you wish to submit on what should be prioritised in the strategy to enable the industry deliver on its potential. You can make submissions by any one of the following means: 1. online at www.bim.ie 2. by email to strategy@bim.ie or 3. by post addressed to: The Secretary, BIM, P.O. Box 12, Crofton Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. All Submissions must be clearly marked ‘Submissions to BIM Strategy Formation’ The closing date for receipt of submissions is 5.00pm Friday 12th October 2012. Please note that submissions received may be subject to release under the Freedom of Information Acts.

Dr Elizabeth Cullen, Irish Doctors’ Environmental Association Editor

Gillian Mills

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inshore ireland October/November 2012

news

Salmon farm says its expansion concerns are ‘misplaced’ Brian Moore

eople living on the Beara Peninsula are being called on to unite and stop the proposed expansion of the Marine Harvest salmon farm at Shot Head in Bantry Bay. Over 7,000 homes have received leaflets produced by the Save Bantry Bay (SBB) committee detailing the fears and concerns the committee has with the development of a new salmon farm. “We need to make the people who live and work in Bantry Bay aware of what Marine Harvest plans to do and what effect this will have on the environment – both above and below the water in the bay,’ SBB secretary Alec O’Donovan told Inshore Ireland.

Nutrient levels

The SBB leaflet claims that the waste from the fish farm is equivalent to the sewage of a town ten times the size of Bantry. The campaign also links the projected increased level

of nutrients in the water to algal blooms that have caused severe losses in the shellfish industry in recent years. “Bantry and Dunmanus, and other bays along the west coast, are currently closed because of algal blooms. Any increase in salmon farming in the bay will cause the numbers of local lobster and crab fishermen to decline,’ he continued.

14 cages at Shot Head. The new site will cover almost 43 hectares of seabed and 1.5 hectares of the water surface area. This new development will enable Marine Harvest to move fish from one site to another, allowing a ‘fallow’ period in one location while the other continues to produce fish. Local fisherman and chairman of the SBB Kieran

McCarthy is concerned for his future in Bantry Bay: “My family has fished around Shot Head for three generations. This new salmon farm threatens local fishermen’s livelihoods through the loss of trawling grounds to a non-Irish corporation. “We’re not against salmon farming but feel that the way forward is to develop

contained fish farms on land where all outputs can be controlled and disposed of in a method that is environmentally sound. “We’re urging residents to lobby their TDs, Senators – and Minister Simon Coveney – to read more, talk to others, and to get involved. The future of Bantry Bay is at stake,” McCarthy concluded.

Current production

Marine Harvest Ireland already farms 14 salmon cages at Roancarrig. The cages, each housing up to 40,000 salmon, are overseen by 40 employees based in Castletownbere and operatives who work in the bay maintaining the cages and harvesting the salmon. Marine Harvest plans to invest €3.5m in the project, which includes the creation of six full-time jobs during the farm set-up. When the farm is fully operational it will provide two full-time jobs. The company has applied to marine minister Simon Coveney and his department for a licence to add a further

Photo Niall Duffy

Marine Harvest Response: Statement to Inshore Ireland ‘There has been salmon farming in Bantry Bay for almost 40 years. It has operated without incident and today it is an integrated part of the local Beara peninsula community. Our proposed new salmon farm site at Shot Head is designed to complement our existing Bantry Bay facilities by allowing improved rotation of our fish stocks and thus improving the overall operating conditions. Salmon are extremely sensitive to pollution and only prosper in clean and well-oxygenated waters. It is therefore in our interest to ensure that the water quality in Bantry Bay remains pristine. Constant water monitoring will be a priority for us to ensure that our organic salmon stocks flourish. While our application is currently being processed it is worth noting that, if licensed, the site will operate as a fully organic unit using low stocking density, organic salmon smolt and organic feed. We are grateful for the support we have received from locals and businesses and we hope that the established opposition groupings can work with us to improve an already established marine industry for the benefit of the entire community. The Marine Institute has also refuted claims by the SBB that the algal blooms, which have called a halt to shellfish harvesting along the west coast of Ireland, are attributed to nutrients discharged from salmon farms. The species of micro-algae that cause shellfish closures around Ireland are not limited by availability of nutrients in the sea. These are low biomass natural blooms that originate offshore. There is no attributable cause other than natural cycling; relating them to salmon farming or other land-based discharges is incorrect. The same UNESCO reference cited [by the SBB] acknowledges this, stating that Dinophysis alexandrium and other micro-algae that cause shellfish toxins appear to be unaffected by coastal nutrient enrichment. The large non-toxic Karenia mikimotoi bloom is a common element of the natural annual cycle of phytoplankton flora that inhabit our coastal waters. The monitoring of shellfish for naturally occurring toxins is carefully controlled by the Marine Institute, Sea Fisheries Protection Authority and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, who work closely together with the shellfish industry.’

Cormac Burke, editor of Intrafish Fishing News Publications presents the awerd to Seán O’Donoghue at their headquarters in London.

Fishermen’s representative recognised as Fishing News International Person of the Year

ean O’Donoghue, CEO of the Ireland’s largest fish producer organisation, the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation, has been recognised as Intrafish Fishing News International Person of the year. Mr O’Donoghue is also a member of the BIM Board; President of the European Association of Producer Organisations (EAPO); member of several EU Regional Advisory Councils (RACs), and formally recognised by the European Fisheries Commission as an ‘industry expert’. The award was acknowledged by the board, management and staff of BIM.

inshore ireland October/November 2012

news

KFO contends herring fishery management is biased against dedicated pelagic vessels Brian Moore

laims of discrimination in favour of southern refrigerated saltwater (RSW) pelagic boats by the Minister for the Marine, Simon Coveney TD, have been rubbished by his department. Speaking to Inshore Ireland, a spokesperson outlined the government’s policy as applied to the management of herring fishing by Irish pelagic vessels. “In 2011, the minister asked the fishing industry and other interested parties to make proposals on future management arrangements for all Irish herring fisheries, the Celtic Sea stock, the stocks off the northwest coast and the Atlanto-Scandian stock. The objective was to deliver a policy that would ensure an economically and biologically sustainable fishery.

“Having considered all views and having regard to the sustainability of the fisheries, the minister came to a decision on June 8, 2012 which provides for the proper and effective management, conservation and rational exploitation of the herring stocks.” Favouritism denied It is this decision, however, which is based on giving access to each of the fisheries to those with a recent track record in that particular fishery, that has lead to claims that the Minister is favouring vessels fishing in southern waters. The track record involves vessels having landed a minimum of five tonnes of herring in 2009 or 2010, or in three of the five years during the period 2006 to 2010. Sean O’Donoghue, chief executive of the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation (KFO) does not agree with the Minister’s claim that the Herring policy will

lead to a bright future for the industry. “The Minister’s decision on the management arrangements was bias against the dedicated pelagic vessels and it is neither fair nor equitable. Contrary to the Minister’s assertion, it will not lead to the effective management of both herring fisheries in the Celtic Sea and the North West. “It is extraordinary that we now have a situation where large Dutch factory vessels will be able to fish herring in the Celtic Sea but the dedicated Irish RSW vessels will not. “Furthermore, some RSW vessels with a very long history of fishing herring in the Celtic Sea are now excluded even though the decision provides for exemptions from the defined track record periods for certain polyvalent vessels. The Minister considers that this is both fair and equitable. It most certainly is not.” Mr O’Donoghue added that the

photo Niall Duffy

Community honoured for unrelenting support during month-long ordeal Brian Moore

he people of Union Hall received the praise of the nation when they were presented with the Rehab People of the Year Award for a community group at the ceremony last month. Parish Priest Fr Pierce McCormack and retired fisherman Bill Deasy accepted the award on behalf of their community from actor and fellow West Cork resident, Jeremy Irons. The award was in

recognition of the support the community provided during the search operations after the tragedy that befell their village at the beginning of 2012. At 6am on January 15, the Marine Rescue Sub Centre in Valentia received a mayday call from the fishing trawler Tit Bonhomme which was being forced on to the rocks on Adam’s Island in Glandore Harbour. That morning in dreadful conditions, five men lost their lives: skipper Michael Hayes, 53; Kevin Kershaw, 21; Wael Mohamed, 35; Attaia Shaban, 26 and Saied Ali Eldin, 22. For four weeks following the

sinking of Tit Bonhomme as the search for the missing crew continued, the community of Union Hall provided unstinting physical and emotional support to the families and friends of the missing fishermen. As the search continued, a makeshift village sprung up on the pier where people, tired and cold from hours of searching at sea or on land, were met with hot food and drinks. “In a rural community like ours, we are all connected with the sea; we do what we can, no matter how long it takes,” remarked Bill Deasy.

KFO had put forward “workable and effective proposals” to allow the dedicated pelagic RSW vessels to participate in the Celtic Sea herring fishery “by setting aside a small quantity – 13% of the quota for the RSW vessels.” He said this percentage share was less than the track record share that the RSW vessels have in the Celtic Sea herring fishery. “Unfortunately the Minister has ignored these proposals,’ Mr O’Donoghue told Inshore Ireland. Minister Coveney remains adamant that the current herring management policy will see a bright future for the Irish RSW boats. “The only exception to track record relates to small vessels in the Dunmore area for the Celtic Sea fishery where a small-scale local fishery is permitted in line with the Rebuilding/Management Plan for the fishery. “The policy provides for a

modest restricted quota for smaller vessels without a track record in both the Celtic Sea and Area VIa South. Similar to the Under 18m polyvalent mackerel fishery, each month a catch limit will be set in consultation with the industry, and vessels under 20m not in receipt of a specific authorisation for herring may fish up to that limit in the month.” He added that the decision was based on a “clear, detailed and objective assessment” of the fisheries in recent years. “This policy is intended to ensure the long-term sustainability of the herring fisheries by limiting participation in the main fisheries to those vessels that have participated in the fishery in the five years prior to the commencement of the review, even at a low level,” the Department of the Marine spokesperson concluded.

inshore ireland October/November 2012

YOURVIEW

Inshore Ireland and its publishers do not accept responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors. While every care is taken to ensure accuracy of information, we do not accept responsibility for any errors, or matters arising from same. Contact the editor at mills@inshore-ireland.com.

High volume hydraulic fracturing and public health issues

Carroll O’Dolan*

igh Volume Hydraulic Fracking [HVHF] uses 50–100 times more water compared to ‘traditional fracking’ which has been in use since the 1940s. HVHF, invented in 1998, has only really taken off in the USA since 2005 when the Government exempted the industry from seven major environmental laws. The argument that fracking has been about for sixty years and has caused no problems is not appropriate as HVHF was in its infancy only ten years ago. Science takes time and one of its basic principles is the precautionary principle which can be summarised as: ‘Just because we have not yet seen any significant problem with a new technology is not proof that such a problem does not exist.’ The examples of lead in petrol; tobacco; asbestos and thalidomide show us that no matter what industry tell us, we ignore the precautionary principle at our peril.

Contamination risk

EU reports released last month state clearly that the

risk of contamination to groundwater, surface water and air from hydraulic fracturing is high. Contamination on this scale will, in time, translate into human and animal sickness. We now know that the lag time on many human diseases can be in the order of 10 –20+ years. Even if exposure ceases before the manifestation of the illness, the process may be irreversible, so that the disease still continues to develop.

Indicators

Already evidence is accruing of health issues related to the processes of HVHF, as outlined below: Of note chemical free HVHF and 100% recycling, even if these were possible, still involves the processing of millions of gallons of contaminated water that may end up in the wrong place and cause health problems, human error being the commonest failure. Air pollution is only now being noted to be a major, yet previously under-researched, area of public health concern. »» of the different chemicals used in the overall shale gas extraction process, 90% have adverse effects on skin, eyes and sensory organs; 50% affect the brain/ nervous system, immune and cardiovascular systems, and the kidneys; 37% affect

the endocrine system, and 25% can cause cancer or DNA mutations. [Colborn et al. 2011] »» Released chemicals from underground rocks and returning to the surface in the flow back fluid. All the following have long established and documented toxic properties: 1. Benzene causes leukaemia/ cancers and spina bifida 2. Mercury causes brain & kidney damage and damages the developing foetus 3. Arsenic causes cancer 4. Ethyl-benzene causes respiratory disease, fatigue and headaches 5. Toluene causes birth defects and central nervous system damage 6. Xylene causes headaches, balance & memory impairment. 7. VOCs [volatile organic compounds] are now known to be endocrine disrupters 8. NORMs [naturally occurring radioactive materials]; DNA damage and carcinogenic »» Increased risk of both cancer and non-cancer ill health in people living closer to gas drilling areas compared to matched people in same county further away; most of these due to sub chronic exposure to air pollutants.

[MacKenzie et al, 2012. Colorado School of Public Health] »» Endocrine disruption caused by very low concentrations of chemicals from frack flow back fluid may be harmful in concentrations as low as parts per trillion. »» Endocrine disruption causes immune, hormonal and DNA damage, all resulting in many forms of ill health including neurological disease and cancers. [Dr Law. Physician at Weill Cornell Medical College, New York. 2011] »» Sudden death, slow deaths, reproductive problems, and neurological diseases documented in 24 different incidents, involving hundreds of farm animals in six States in USA. Many cases involved cattle exposed to flow backfrack fluid usually via spills secondary to human error. Animals often act as sentinels for human disease as their life cycles are shorter than ours. Animal owners were also affected including arsenic poisoning in children and benzene derivatives in adults. ‘Without rigorous scientific studies, the gas drilling boom sweeping the world will remain an uncontrolled health experiment on an enormous scale’. [Bamberger & Oswald,

2012. Veterinary Medical Centre, Cornell University, New York] »» Excess risk of cancers caused by air borne contamination near gas pads [Air pollution control division, 2008. Colorado Department of Public Health] »» Silicosis risk from silica dust (part of fracking sand additive) long known risk of silica exposure and irreversible lung damage, but only flagged up this year by Health & Safety Physicians in USA as major problem on well pads & downwind areas. [Esswein, 2012] As can be seen from the above research there is significant public health concerns over fracking and the preliminary health impacts are not favourable towards HVHF. We need more health research and this will gradually come on stream from the USA over the next ten years. If we abandon the precautionary principle then the next ‘boom and bust’ industry on this island will leave us with more than just toxic debts. *Dr Carroll O’Dolan is a member of the The Royal College of General Practitioners.

inshore ireland October/November 2012

YOURVIEW

Shrouded in morning mist: Irish maritime history sails by. L.É. Aoife (just visible far left) and ILV Granuaile escort Asgard II, Dunbrody and Jeanie Johnston to the start line of the 2005 Tall Ships Race off Hook Head, Co Waterford. Photo G.Mills

The need for a national sail training vessel Seán T. Rickard

reland’s hosting the Tall Ships 2012 last August was a major visual attraction with knock-on economic benefits for Dublin, and should serve to silence those who question the need for a national Irish sail training vessel. Such benefits would be compounded if national maritime awareness were dramatically increased among the general public. Indeed, if we are to promote the sea and the exploitation of its manifold resources, eg. fisheries; renewable energy; medical research;

recreation; tourism and maritime heritage/culture, it would be best showcased and supported by the operation of a national tall ship. The potential revenues thereby gained by such exploitation could be used as a funding stream for a tall ship. If these arguments aren’t enough there are plenty more reasons. Sail training vessels in themselves are magnificent tools for diplomacy. Such vessels making foreign ports of call promote a great deal of goodwill if they are run efficiently. The Saoirse circumnavigation (1923-25) and ongoing visits by Irish naval vessels to the Americas are examples that can foster international relations often equating to greater

foreign trade, serving as a hidden dimension of geopolitics and commerce- a sound axiom for the need for a national tall ship. Indeed, even on a macro level such vessels are often used in countries to seduce potential local and foreign clients, that regularly result in benefits of global business relations. An Irish national sail training vessel can be used by a variety of groups ranging from schoolchildren, wheelchair users, naval cadets, to diplomats. It may serve topically in sail training, but could be used in inventive ways such as part of valid educational curriculums at all levels, charter parties or State functions. The experience gained from a

ship visit, day trip or ocean voyage often remains in the memories of those partaking, and for more profound training remains a lifetime. These beneficial effects have been thoroughly vilified in a recent study conducted by the University of Edinburgh. Unfortunately, these benefits are not appreciated by those (many of them policy makers) who have not undergone this type of experience. This void is also endemic of the most of the population and calls even more for a tall ship of our own. While some of these aims might be achieved by other types of vessels it is only a tall ship which truly captures the imagination of the sea and indeed provides for better understanding of the marine environment in the art of navigation. The experience of a tall ship is unique. This is why when the tall ships arrive in town, everyone goes to the largest tall ships with the highest masts. Other potential aims would not be accomplished by anything other than a tall ship. My arguments so far have failed to mention, national pride, the legacy of our maritime cultural heritage or indeed of national memorial. Have we forgotten those who by the navigation of ships have served Ireland -and what better way to remember them by the navigation of a national tall ship-Asgard III. Historically, successive Irish governments habitually ignored the arguments for a strong maritime sector paying only token gestures to the industry. However,

recently grounds are being made. The work of the Marine Institute, National Maritime College of Ireland, and Irish Naval Service along with INFOMAR, are certainly beginning to bear dividends. The current government’s plan, Harnessing our OceanWealth might appear audacious to some but until carried to fruition it is just that-a plan. But it is a massive step in the right direction. A national tall ship could play a significant role in achieving or coordinating several of these objectives outlined by the plan. While Sail Training Ireland along with the yacht Creidne are doing a laudable job shoring the waterline of recent setbacks to Irish tall ships, the need for a vessel is completely self evident. [If government is indeed committed to such the plan- it might apply some Keynesian economics by investing in the construction of the vessel in Ireland thereby providing an injection to the national economy. However, if it reverts to the age old argument that there are greater needs on the exchequer than we may not expect much and have to revert to private enterprise for a solution. It is three years now and we still don’t have a national sail training ship nor indeed an apparent solid foundation for the procurement of one. And while government need not be involved with the running of the vessel, it could provide a jump start to providing funding, uniting talent, philanthropists and those necessary to make it a reality-and above all, leadership.

A ‘preserved’ Asgard is unveiled to the public but continues to prompt debate Tim Magennis

he Chinese, they say, have a way of putting it when they declare, ‘May you live in interesting times.’ There are, I admit, a number of interpretations that may be put on that particular statement. At the unveiling of Asgard on August 8 in Collins Barracks was a very special guest – and indeed for her, and her distinguished family, these are interesting times. She was Carainn Childers, grand-daughter of Robert Erskine Childers of Asgard fame and daughter of the late President Erskine Childers. Background Asgard is one of the most iconic items of recent Irish

Tim Magennis speaking at the annual Poolbeg Yacht Club regatta

history. She was pivotal in the 1914 Howth gunrunning and her later use as Ireland’s first national sail-training vessel under

skipper Capt. Eric Healy. Asgard’s future however has been a major topic of debate for decades. For 22 years from March 1979

to March 2001, Asgard lay virtually forgotten by the public at large, filling a lonely corner inside the walls of Kilmainham Jail. From time to time during those years, individuals and small groups of concerned people would refer to her deteriorating condition and express astonishment and sadness that our State institutions were content to preside over such neglect of a national treasure. Some promised to do something about it but their efforts came to nought. Eventually the condition of Ireland’s singular maritime treasure – and one to which Norway can quite rightly also make a claim – became a matter of much concern for a group who shared a passion not only for sailing but above all, where possible, the restoration of classic

and traditional craft - and always at their own expense. They called themselves the Asgard Restoration Project and they had an inspired leader in Arthur Hughes – elder gaffer of the OGA and founder of the DBOGA. They set about the substantial task of creating public awareness of Asgard’s sad condition among a population that had all but forgotten both vessel and her famous owner and originator. They succeeded in making Asgard a cause of national concern and also in securing her release from the neglect of Kilmainham Jail. These two achievements constitute the proudest claims of the ARP for had they failed, who knows what would have been her fate. Today, the Asgard Exhibition is a major shrine bestowing honour on the vessel »» page 8

inshore ireland October/November 2012

YOURVIEW »» from page 7

herself, her designer Colin Archer, Erskine Childers and Asgard’s crew and John Kearon – master shipwright in charge of her rebuild. The ARP’s initial contribution to his final happy outcome should not, I believe, be overlooked.

Annual regatta

Following the unveiling, Carainn Childers and her husband Colin took time out from their busy schedule to present the Asgard Perpetual Trophy at the annual Poolbeg Yacht Club Regatta to Sean Walsh and his speedy Tir na nÓg. The couple were welcomed by Dublin Bay Old Gaffers Association (DBOGA) members and on behalf of Poolbeg Yacht and Boat

Club by Commodore Peter Tobin. John Kearon was also acknowledged for designing, making the trophy and presenting it to DBOGA. Indeed this is a precious item, being the only trophy composed of original and new Asgard timber. It is on permanent display at the Poolbeg Club. Isn’t it strange how situations change? Howth will forever feature in the Asgard saga as the place where Erskine and Molly Childers landed the guns in 1914, but now what do we have? A transposition of primary interest to the Liffey; the exhibition only a stone’s throw from the river and a unique trophy in a yacht club sharing water with Dublin Port. Could they be any closer to the heart centre of our capital city?

Carainn Childers with the winner of the Asgard Trophy for 2012 Seán Walsh, skipper of Tír na nÓg with the DBOGA President Paul Keogh and John Wedick Hon Sec

The little known dangers of fluoridation a report on the manufacture and use of hexafluorosilicic/ fluorosilicic acid used for water fluoridation in Ireland. I welcome and support his identification of hydrofluorosilicic acid (and the silicofluorides) as highly dangerous compounds now widely added in public water supplies both in the Republic of Ireland and the USA.

Roger Masters*

hen there are concerns regarding artificial water fluoridation, it’s essential to know what chemical compound is used to fluoridate your water. If it is either hydrofluorosilicic acid (H2SiF6) (also known as hexafluorisilicic or fluoriosilicic acid) or sodium silicofluoride

(Na2SiF6), then I am an internationally known scientist who can testify under oath on the toxic properties of these chemicals, their harmful effects on water users, and the total absence of independent testing of their safety. I am aware that Declan Waugh (Inshore Ireland 8.4) has published a comprehensive independent report on the human toxicity and environmental impacts of water fluoridation. More recently he published

Scientifically irresponsible To speak about ‘fluoride’ without specifying the compound used is scientifically irresponsible: arguments made for the benefits of fluoride for teeth (which come from use of sodium fluoride) ignore that, In the case of these silicofluoride (SiF) compounds (used for all of the treated water in Ireland and over 90% of water fluoridation in the U.S.), there isn’t the ‘complete dissociation’ into separate elements observed when sodium fluoride (familiar in toothpaste) is added to water – and splits into sodium and fluoride. It is important to note that sodium fluoride is not the same as silicofluorides; sodium fluoride in toothpaste has been tested for safety and is nowhere near as dangerous as fluorosilicic acid. Evidence of this will be clearly provided in the so-called material safety data sheet (MSDS) for these compounds which are dangerous because they are strong acids. The most important finding we have on SiF when added to water is that the

biological effects of ingesting water treated with these compounds are that lead from ANY environmental source (industrial pollution, lead paint in old housing, lead in water, lead leached from brass water fixtures) is enchanced by the residues from SiFs. Harmful effects Unlike sodium fluoride, scientific data show that silicofluoride compounds are associated with a wide number of harmful effects, including: • higher children’s blood lead levels (due to leaching lead from brass and increasing lead uptake from environmental exposures) lower grades on standardised educational tests • higher rates of arrest for driving under influence of cocaine • higher rates of violent crime One of the interesting facts that my research has documented is that a major factor in the biological response to the toxicity of silicofluoride is ethnicity. For example, within the same communities drinking the same water and living in North America, African Americans are likely to absorb more lead (due to poverty and lactose intolerance). Lead and calcium are both chemically similar (divalent cations is the technical word). With low calcium in the diet, any ingested lead is likely to be biological available and get into cells (especially brain cells) where it changes the way the cells work. This is a particular problem for communities

where mains water pipes may be lead lined as is the case in certain geographic areas in Ireland. Health risks In such areas, if the drinking water is also treated with silicofluorides for water fluoridation, the health risks for vulnerable subgroups in particular children are increased, as lead is both a neurotoxin and a known carcinogen. Importantly, silicofluorides are also known to reduce levels and function of dopamine and acetylcholinesterase – and increase activity of acetylcholine. Regulation of dopamine plays a crucial role in our mental, emotional and physical health; acetylcholinesterase on the other hand is one of the most important enzymes present in our central nervous system while acetylcholine plays a role in skeletal muscle movement as well as in the regulation of smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. *Dr Roger D. Masters is Research Professor at Dartmouth College and Nelson A. Rockefeller Professor of Government at Dartmouth College, New Hampshire. The central theme of his work is the philosophic and scientific exploration of the role of human nature in political and social behavior. Recently, his research has focused on cognitive neuroscience, the nonverbal behaviour of leaders, and the effects of toxic metals on human behaviour.

inshore ireland October/November 2012

Liquid Assets Publication

OIL AND GAS EXPLORATION & DISOVERIES IRELAND 2012

Liquid Assets Ireland’s oil and gas resources and how they could be managed for the people’s benefit. September 2012. For further information visit www.dublinshelltosea.com

10 inshore ireland October/November 2012

freshwater focus

‘Probable low and manageable risk’ from fracking Gery Flynn

report released by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that reviews the geological and engineering aspects of fracking, potential environmental impacts and the existing regulatory framework in different countries, concludes that the procedure presents a low and probably manageable risk to ground water, whereas potential impact on the atmosphere from associated methane emissions and the risks of increased seismicity are less well known. Hydraulic Fracturing or ‘Fracking’: A Short Summary of Current Knowledge and Potential Environmental Impacts, was prepared for the EPA by Dr Dave Healy, a senior lecturer in Geomechanics at the Department of Geology and Petroleum Geology at the University of Aberdeen. It can be downloaded from the EPA website. Noting that much of the media coverage on fracking to date ‘is often misinformed’ the study warns that critical evaluations of shale gas fracking and the potential impacts on the environment ‘must be based on peer-reviewed, scientific analyses of quantitative data’. It finds too that agencies like the EPA – responsible for regulating or monitorine environmental impacts – need to be at the forefront of this effort. It added that the design of any national regulatory framework to protect the environment from hydraulic fracturing operations “should start with the supranational European Union directives and recommendations from working groups in progress”. As for these potential environmental impacts, the study singles them out while cautioning that reference material is currently dominated by material originating from the USA.

he 1,100 acre estate of Carton House, Maynooth, Co Kildare, was the setting for the annual media fly-fishing competition. Almost five kilometres of the River Rye meanders between the renowned Mark O’Meara and Colin Mongomerie courses, providing idyllic boat fishing on a lake and miles of bank fishing for those in search of wild brown brout. The day was divided into a morning boat session, alternating in the afternoon to the back water which is stocked with rainbows. Despite heavy overnight rain fall that turned the water into brown soup making visibility almost impossible, the skill of the anglers paid off with Liam Kane (Irish Angler’s Digest) catching four and David Gray (the Star), Dick Warner (the Examiner) and Fergal Keane (RTÉ) also recording fish. Many thanks to Deirdre O’Brien, director of sales and marketing, and Rob Love, angling manager, for their hospitality throughout the day.

Angling packages from €310 per person sharing, along with casting tuition for the intermediary angler; expert ghillies provide fly-fishing tuition for beginners. • 2 nights fishing package (2 nights B&B, one dinner, 1.5 days fishing • 3 nights fishing package (3 nights B&B, one dinner and 3 days fishing • 3 night fishing school (3 nights B&B, one dinner and 3 half days tuition and fishing Fishing rates per day • 3 hr permit (€35 adult/€15 child • 6 hr permit (€50 adult/€20 child

Summary findings

Graphic: Al Granberg/ ProPublica

Ground Water Contamination: Ground water contamination is by far the most serious local environmental concern, and probably the most contentious. The potential risk to ground water comes from two sources: the injected fluid (water + chemical additives) and the released natural gas. Current opinion is that all scientifically documented cases of ground water contamination associated with fracking are related to poor well casings and their cements, or from leakages of fluid at the surface rather than from the fracking process itself.

Water sources Sourcing the vast volumes of water required for an extended fracking programme can be challenging, especially in arid or depleted areas. Estimates of water volume required vary widely, with between 90,000 and 13,500,000 litres per well. Local extraction of water from small catchments could have an impact on the ecology and hydrology of rivers in these areas. Finding sustainable sources for these volumes of water is clearly a challenge, but related environmental impacts may also develop from transporting water in to the drilling site from further afield.

Chemical additives Defining the toxicity level of additives used in the fracking phase should be a relatively simple and quantifiable scientific task, however in some countries fracking companies are under no legal obligation to declare the exact composition of this mixture. Note that the Irish regulatory regime (and that of the European Union) requires full disclosure of all additives to the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland). Blow outs Surface and subsurface blow outs have been documented in the USA. If the fluid injected into the well head does not fracture the rock volume around the bottom of the well as intended the elevated fluid pressure will drive the fluid into other open and permeable pathways.These pathways can include the injecting well bore, but also any other boreholes in the vicinity that are not capped for these high pressures. Explosive eruptions of drilling fluid and/or oil and gas from neighbouring wells are a direct consequence of pre-existing permeable connectivity at depth. Seepage of any surface spillage from a blow out into the ground could then lead to ground water contamination (see above).

Where golf reigns supreme but fly-fishing is an excellent second best

Fate of the fracking fluid How to dispose of fracking fluid after use during the fracking process presents further challenges. Some operators in North America have chosen to pond this flow back fluid in man-made pools and then allow it to either evaporate, or be transported away at a later date. Scope exists to develop new fracking fluids free from chemical additives, although the sand proppant will probably still be required. Emissions to the atmosphere from fracking The emission of gas and/or vapour to the atmosphere from the fluid, either of original additive chemicals, entrained contaminants from the shale formation or the methane released by the fracking process.There is an ongoing debate about the relative leakage rate of methane into the atmosphere from the exploitation of shale gas in comparison to the emission rate from conventional gas.This is potentially important because a high leakage rate might mean that methane released by fracking operations into the atmosphere from shale gas extraction could have a higher net greenhouse gas footprint than, say, coal. Fracking operators should therefore seek to minimize all emissions to the atmosphere, and monitoring processes need to be actively enforced.

Details: www.cartonhouse.com / 01 5052000

Deirdre O’Brien, director of sales and marketing, with Liam Kane.

Rob Love, angling manager, takes time out of his busy schedule

inshore ireland October/November 2012 11

freshwater focus

Grasshoppers do catch trout Brendan Connolly

ost people remember trying to catch grasshoppers during their childhood. As adults we generally don’t bother with this – unless you’re an angler that is. Towards the end of the summer, anglers can be seen stalking through grassland zeroing in on singing grasshoppers – suddenly jumping forward, hands outstretched, diving on their quarry. But grasshoppers are strong jumpers, and often escape. Traditionally, September is the month to use grasshoppers for trout-fishing. There are artificial wet-fly patterns that imitate the grasshopper, which can also be dapped using a long rod (approx. 2-13ft) with a single hook at the end of the line and three feet of dapping floss about 4-5ft above the end of the line to catch the wind. As grasshoppers are large

insects, the hook size should not be too small; numbers 10 or 12 are useful. Grasshoppers are successfully dapped on many Irish lakes, Lough Mask in Co Mayo being one. With its mysterious deep sections and shallow rocks, Lough Mask offers many nooks and crannies that harbour trout.

Ideal conditions

A group of anglers set out armed with dapping and fly rods. A southerly breeze and an overcast sky, without rain, were almost perfect weather conditions for fishing. One boat started a drift alongside a series of shallows where two of the anglers were dapping and the third was casting a wet-fly. Within ten minutes a fine trout came up to the wet-fly, creating a big swirl on the water surface. The angler lifted his fly-rod, but did not hook the fish. But this was a good sign for the rest of the day’s fishing; big trout were obviously close to the surface.

Keeping a sharp eye out for dangerous rocks, the anglers enjoyed the beautiful scenery of Lough Mask. Suddenly, one of them who was dapping thought he saw a slight disturbance in the waves around his line. Not having seen any rise, he wasn’t sure whether to strike or not. He concentrated on the floss and after a few seconds the floss gradually moved down towards the water and below the surface. He struck – and contacted a hard fighting fish!

Battle begins

First the trout plunged straight down and stayed solidly close to the bottom. Then it came up but ran from the boat. The angler then managed to lead the fish around to the stern of the boat where he could play the fish. The trout again surged away with the line zipping from the reel. Slowly reeling in, the angler prepared to net the fish, but again it turned and ran. This strong fish was

Fluoride leak from treatment plant in 2007 not reported to the EPA Gery Flynn

he Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that a serious water pollution incident in 2007 where fluoride leaking from a local authority treatment plant killing thousands of fish was not reported to it because the event happened prior to the implementation of key EU water legislation. In written correspondence seen by Inshore Ireland, an EPA spokesman responds to three requests for information on this incident from environmental scientist Declan Waugh. ‘The fluoride leak was not reported to the EPA as it predated both the European Communities (Environmental Liability) Regulations 2008, which came into force in 2009 and the European Communities (Drinking Water) (No. 2) Regulations, 2007 which came into force in 2007. There was no requirement for the local authority to report such incidents to the EPA prior to these Regulations.’

The facts of the pollution incident are outlined in a report by The Kerryman newspaper on November 28, 2007, of a case heard before Dingle District Court in which Kerry County Council admitted that fluoride leaking from one of its water treatment plants had been responsible for killing some 2,000 fish including sea trout, brown trout and eels in the Mall River in Dingle on June 7 that year. The case against Kerry County Council was taken by the South Western Regional Fisheries Board. The newspaper states that investigations by Environmental Officer Patricia O’Connor had located an underground pipe coming from a waste treatment plant approximately 600 metres upstream of the fish kill at Ballinassig. Ms O’Connor is reported saying that “the tank was open to the elements, and on testing its contents it had a pH reading of 1.4 which, she said would be ‘lethal’ to fish”. Kerry County Council’s

solicitor is reported saying that the fish kill had been caused by fluoride leaking from a pump, but that the fault had been rectified as soon as it was brought to the council’s attention. The case appears to have concluded with Kerry County Council paying €3,678 to the South Western Regional Fisheries Board to help with restocking the river with fish. Further requests by Declan Waugh to the EPA to provide specific“details of any unauthorized accidental releases of fluoride that may have occurred from water treatment plants in Ireland in the past ten years” received the following response from the agency: “The EPA has not been notified of any unauthorised accidental releases of fluoride from water treatment plants in Ireland since 2009 under the Environmental Liability Regulations (prior to this there was no requirement to notify the EPA) and has not detected any such incidents caused by fluoride during EPA audits of drinking water treatment plants since 2001.”

showing no signs of giving up. Once more the fish slowly came towards the boat, only to swirl at the surface and make another run. The angler knew that as long as he kept up the pressure, the fish would eventually tire. Again the fish surfaced but this time slid into the waiting net. While it was a fine trout of about 1.5lb, the angler expected it to be bigger given the fight it had given. Continuing on the same drift the third angler had a nice rise to the dap but this fish also disappeared below the surface. Yet another trout rose, only to bite off part of the grasshopper, leaving the rest on the hook.

Time out

During lunch on an island, the anglers compared their catches. Some had caught smaller fish which they returned; however but a fine trout of 3.68lb had also been caught.

After lunch, drifting on the outside of an island, one angler had a good rise; he hooked the trout and played it out behind the boat. It was a fine trout of 1.25lb. Shortly afterwards the same angler saw his line straighten and slowly disappear below the surface; similar to the morning, he saw no swirl at the surface. The angler struck and felt the solid pull of another trout. This trout did not take as long as the first one to come to the net. Surprisingly it was 2.5 lb – a good pound heavier than the first one despite not being as strong a fighter. Comparing catches at the end of the day, everyone had caught fish but some were less than 13 inches and were returned. One of the other anglers however had caught a trout of 3.69lb in the same area where the first had been caught. A fine pair of fish, separated by just 0.01lb!

A female mottled grasshopper (Myrmeleotettix maculatus)

A common green grasshopper (Omocestus viridulus) resplendent with bright purple and green coloration

A fine 3.68 lb Lough Mask trout

12 inshore ireland October/November 2012

aquaculture news

Aquaculture values county-by-county in 2011 is set to continue. Wexford gigas oyster production was valued at over €1m. Counties Carlow, Kilkenny and Tipperary all have landbased finfish activity. Salmon smolts, freshwater trout (700,000) and a small amount of perch are the three species that feature in these counties. Back to the coast, Waterford had gigas production of almost €10m, making it the second producer county of this species in 2011 to county Donegal. Waterford bottommussel production was valued at €90,000.

Benen Dallaghan BIM

tarting in the northeast, county Louth produced over €1m worth of gigas oysters and €1.4m of bottom mussel. In general, demand for gigas is strong, partly due to the mortalities in France. In Co Wicklow, freshwater trout production was valued at €891,000. This figure particularly reflects the demand for high-quality trout product in the domestic market. From a shellfish point of view, even though there is

no on-growing in counties Westmeath, Dublin and Wicklow, seed mussel is taken from their coastal waters and is a valuable resource to the bottom mussel industry.

Bottom mussel stronghold

Further south is Wexford – the largest producer of bottom mussels in the country– production was valued at €5.57m. (Kerry and Donegal are the other main bottom-mussel producing counties.) Inland, Wexford and Carlow salmon smolt production was valued at €639,000. The demand for high quality smolts is strong and this trend

South coast salmon farming

While Cork is the premier rope-mussel producer in the county valued over €3m but also boasts salmon aquaculture, valued over €19m and smolts €275,000. Freshwater trout are also a feature of this county, valued at €300,000. Gigas oysters are also very significant, valued over €1m. Urchin and scallop production had a combined production value of €30,000; this figure would appear to be stable when compared with previous years. Abalone value was €6,000; this figure is set to increase as production capacity increases. Salmon production in Kerry is currently stagnant; however

the county is an active shellfish aquaculture producer with bottom-grown mussels valued at €1.9m. Native oyster production was valued at €600,000. Tralee bay and County Clare are the biggest native oyster producers in the country; however current production is less that 4% of the overall oyster industry in Ireland. Rope mussel and gigas oysters are also well developed industries in Kerry with production values of €502,000 and €1m respectively. Scallop aquaculture was worth €14,000. Gigas are the main species found in Co Clare with a value of €521,000. Relatively small amounts of clam, scallop and rope mussel production are also active in the county. Aquaculture values in Co Galway are high where salmon production was worth €22m and smolt, €662,000. Char production is unique to Galway, valued at €280,000. Native (€662,000) and gigas oyster (€973,750) production as well as rope grown mussels (€827,193) are very significant industries in this county. There is also freshwater trout production worth €41,000.

Multi-farming in Mayo

Mayo is another stalwart

of the aquaculture industry producing a full range of both finfish and shellfish. Salmon production was valued at €16m in 2009; however there was no salmon production (harvest) in 2011 due to temporary site fallowing at Clare Island. In 2011 gigas was valued at €1.4m and rope mussel at €406,000. Sea trout was valued at €900,000. Inland to Roscommon, Cavan and Monaghan perch production was valued at €78,000. This figure represents a significant fall in production when compared to previous years. Sligo is the premier producer of clams nationwide with a value of €730,000. Gigas oysters are also very significant, valued at €146,800. Over all, Donegal was the ‘number one’ Irish aquaculture county-bycounty value in 2011 with a combined output value exceeding €47m. It is also the top salmon producer and joint leader with Co Waterford for gigas oyster production. Salmon were valued at €32m and gigas at €10m. Bottom mussel production was valued at €1.74m. There were also high levels of production for sea trout (€1m); rope mussel (€625,000) and scallop (€180,000). Smolts were valued at €2m.

Understanding the Nephrops fishery to enhance discard survival rate Gery Flynn

esearchers at NUI Galway’s Ryan Institute are part of a new €2.4m EU-funded project to develop and enhance the sustainability of the European prawn fishery. Focussing on developing hatchery and ranching technologies, this research will also look at enhancing the survival of discards. Discarding is a major problem for this fishery in particular. Nephrops norvegicus, also known as ‘Dublin Bay prawn’, ‘langoustine’ or ‘scampi’ is the species of focus in the NEPHROPS project. The programme is being led by NUI Galway and the Orkney Fisheries Association, and will bring together experts from the fishing industry, technologists and academia across Europe. Dr Colm Lordan of the Marine Institute is also involved in the project. “Prawn mortality is generally the result of poor handling and

inappropriate discard protocols,” Dr Anne Marie Power, a zoology lecturer at NUI Galway told Inshore Ireland. “After capture by trawl or creel, undersized prawns – which can often be as much as 45% of the catch – may be thrown back. Roughly 75% of discards from trawl fishing may die.” Hatchery technology Another aspect of the project is to develop hatchery technology for local fishermen interested in enhancing their fishery by releasing juveniles onto suitable grounds. “For this research to be successful, we will need to better understand what makes good grounds for prawns; how they behave when they are released, and what can be done to enhance survival at the critical release stage,” explains Dr Power. The main areas of work for the researchers are identifying suitable inshore prawn habitats, as well as mapping and tagging studies to examine animal movement. Growth trials will be conducted at the University’s Carna

Aquaculture Research facility some 80 kilometres west of Galway city. The project leaders within NUI Galway are Dr Anne Marie Power and Professor Mark Johnson who is also overall scientific leader for the NEPHROPS consortium. According to Dr Power “Nephrops is a really important fishery in Ireland due to its economic value” and she sees this latest research programme as “a great opportunity to work with industrial partners, especially pot fishermen, to provide more opportunities to sustainably develop the resource”. NUIG’s share of the project is worth €540,000 alone. Other research institutions involved are the University of Hull, Swansea University, Goteborg University in Sweden and the Technology Institute in Norway. The research has received funding from the European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme managed by REA Research Executive Agency. For more information and a full list of contacts visit the website www.nephrops.eu.

inshore ireland October/November 2012 13

aquaculture news

Value of Irish Aquaculture by County for Year 2011 (in thousands of Euro)

Map prepared by Benen Dallagher, BIM

14 inshore ireland October/November 2012

aquaculture news

Good prices predicted for winter sales of bulk oysters from island of Ireland Fabrice Richez

he 1970s epizootic events almost eradicated the native oysters (Ostrea edulis) in European oyster production regions, and decimated the Portuguese oyster (Ostrea angulata) from the French coast. The Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas), which was introduced to France from Japan and British Columbia to replace the Portuguese oyster, has also been affected by massive mortalities since the 1990s. Scientific investigations conclude that mortalities were linked to multifactorial interactions between the oyster, the environment and the presence of pathogens. Moreover, some studies also

show a causal link between the presence of pathogens such as the Ostreid herpesvirus-1 (OsHV-1) and oyster mortality.

High mortalities

In France from 2008, the summer mortality situation aggravated when oysters started to die massively and ubiquitously around the French coast. Since then massive mortalities have occurred every year, with mortality rates averaging 80% of the stock. At the same time, the newly discovered variant (OsHV-1 μVar) became the dominant pathogen and appeared to be more virulent than the main strain, OHV-1. Severe mortality events in C.gigas were also reported by the main European oyster production countries from summer 2008-2009 and in other part of the world

including New Zealand (2010, 2011), Australia (2010), Japan (2010) ).

Favourable conditions

Oyster production regions from Ireland and the UK were less affected by massive mortalities than French ones. It has been suggested that these differences were as a result of colder sea temperatures and lower degree of intensification of oyster farming. Taking into account large-scale mortalities and economical implications on the oyster industry, the French, British and Irish authorities have engaged with the European Commission, to prevent the spread of the virus to areas where it had not been detected. Monitoring and research programmes into shellfish

Aquaculture licence appeal upheld on grounds of insufficient flushing Brian Moore

lans for a new mussel farm in Dunmanus Bay have received a major setback with the refusal by the Aquaculture Appeals Board to grant the company a licence. Dunmanus Bay Mussels Ltd applied to the Minister for Agriculture Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney, for an aquaculture and foreshore licence to begin operations in the waters between the Mizen and Sheep’s Head peninsulas in West Cork. While the licence

was granted by the department, a group including local residents – the Association of Dunmanus Bay fishermen – the Dunmanus Bay Marine Association and the Friends of the Irish Environment, launched an appeal to the AAB. At a meeting on September 24, the AAP refused to grant permission for the licence, citing insufficient flushing at the proposed mussel farm site. While there is sufficient water depth in the proposed area, the AAB noted it was a sheltered location and was ‘likely

to harbour large amounts of organic and inorganic waste material produced during production, compromising the integrity of the marine habitat.’ Tony Lowes, Friends of the Irish Environment, said they were “delighted” with the decision. “I think we may be seeing the turning of the tide, so to speak, when it comes to this type of aquaculture in our bays. This decision bodes well for the environmental future of Dunmanus Bay and I hope Bantry Bay as well.”

Aquaculture licence refused on grounds of poor flushing in location

Photo B Moore

diseases have resulted in best aquaculture practices and technologies to reduce these mortalities. Factors that have been identified as has having an impact on higher mortality rates and the spread of the disease include sea temperature (over 16˚C); the degree of intense farming; culture practices; methods of culture; site proximity and hydrodynamics; pollutions; the presence of other pathogens; the genotypic resistance of the oyster and the state of the oyster. OsHV-1 μVar is an oyster infectious disease harmless to humans; however it had dramatic consequences on the French oyster industry where production collapsed from 128,500 tonnes in 2008 to 80,000 tonnes in 2011.

Optimistic winter sales

For Irish oyster producers it is now a good opportunity to invest in the industry with prices for bulk never seen before. An initial telephone survey on price prediction for bulk oysters seems to indicate a further price increase for the bulk sales of winter 2012. A standard quality diploids oyster should be sold at €3.5 to €3.7/kg and triploids oyster at €4.2/kg. As

for the specials, (a superior quality oyster) producers are targeting €5 to €6 /kg. These predictions will soon be confirmed once the harvest season starts mid October and towards the end-of-year sales. There is also a great a market opportunity for the Island of Ireland to produce diseasefree seed at a competitive rate, with no abnormal mortalities in disease free sites. The only commercial hatcheries situated in ‘disease free’ locations in the UK are over capacity and cannot supply oyster farmers located in disease free bays. It is important for oyster producers to keep in mind that French hatcheries will very likely once again produce select oysters with high survival rates so prices might fall again. The DARD has allocated some funding to Aquaculture Initiatives to carry out investigations about the massive oyster mortalities, with associated causes, consequences and impacts on the oyster industry in Northern Ireland. Review on the oyster mortality situation (Crassostrea gigas) and market opportunities for Ireland will be shortly available for the industy

Oyster farmer Marenne-Oléron, France, checks his tube collectors used to produce half-grown oysters. The tubes were covered with hundreds of oysters before the massive mortalities. These collectors now only provide about 2-3 tonnes of oysters after the 80% mortalities on the seed Photo Fabrice Richez

Transfer of half-grown oyster bags at sea in the spring, Marennes - Oléron, France Photo Fabrice Richez

inshore ireland October/November 2012 15

aquaculture news

Seaweed: a rich source of vitamins and bioactive compounds

OCEANFEED™ is a balanced, natural and fully sustainable seaweed-derived feed ingredient

The research laboratory at Ocean Harvest Technology

Simon Faulkner Ocean Harvest Technology

wareness of the potential health benefits of seaweed – not just for human consumption– is gathering apace, whereby selected seaweed species are now being added to aquaculture and agriculture feed with resulting benefits. One reason for this is that seaweed is a significant source of vitamins and other interesting compounds that have a number of biological functions. Biological functions of vitamins Vitamins can be divided into those that are either water or fat-

soluble. Water-soluble vitamins include both B-complex vitamins and vitamin C. The B-complex vitamins are the largest group and have roles associated with metabolism, muscle tone, cell growth and the nervous system. For example, Nori (Porphyra sp.) and sea lettuce (Ulva sp.) are good sources of vitamin B12 which has an important role in DNA synthesis. Vitamin C is a watersoluble vitamin that is important for gum health, iron absorption and resistance to infection. Fat-soluble vitamins include vitamin A, D, E and K. Vitamin A (retinol) plays an important role in bone growth, tooth development, reproduction and cell division. Vitamin D, another fat-soluble vitamin, is important for bone growth and maintenance. Vitamins E and K also have a number of biological functions including antioxidant activity and blood clotting. In addition to their biochemical functions and antioxidant activity, seaweed-derived vitamins have been demonstrated to have other health benefits such as reducing hypertension, preventing cardiovascular disease and reducing the risk of cancer.

Factors affecting vitamin content Although seaweed contains both water and fat-soluble vitamins, the vitamin composition of seaweed is variable and depends on a number of factors. For example, evidence exits of seasonal variation in the vitamin content of the seaweed Eisenia arborea, where fat-soluble vitamins follow a different pattern to those that are water-soluble. Another factor affecting seaweed vitamin content is light exposure, as plants growing in bright light can contain higher levels of some vitamins. Seaweed species is another critical factor which can affect vitamin composition. For example, the level of niacin (vitamin B3) in some brown seaweeds (e.g. Laminaria sp.) is approximately one tenth the level found in the red seaweed, Porphyra tenera. Other factors that can influence vitamin content include geographical location, salinity and sea temperature. Vitamin content can also be affected by processing as both heat and dehydration can have a significant effect on the vitamin levels.

Brown seaweed (kelp) found on Ireland’s west coast Seaweed-derived compounds In addition to vitamins, seaweed also contains bioactive compounds which have been proven to have antibiotic; antiviral; antimicrobial; mitogenic anti-inflammatory; anti-adhesion; ACE-inhibitory; antioxidant; anticancer and antithrombotic effects. These bioactive compounds include polysaccharides; proteins; amino acids; pigments phenolic compounds and sterols. The levels of these bioactive compounds also depend on factors such as species, geographical location and season.

Incorporating seaweed into feed Ocean Harvest Technology’s fully sustainable feed product ‘OceanFeed™’ is a specially selected, unique blend that harnesses the bioactive compounds and vitamins present in seaweed. OceanFeed™ therefore offers a natural, fully sustainable feed ingredient formula for the aquaculture and animal feed sectors that can replace costly synthetic ingredients.

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marine r&d

RV Keary and the Irish Revenue Custom Cutter Suirbhéir docked in the Grand Canal Basin, Dublin, during Tall Ships 2012

University College Cork hosts four-day marine showcase Koen Verbruggen & Janine Guinan, GSI

he INFOMAR annual seminar, Enabling our Ocean Management, will provide an update on the national seabed mapping programme, survey operations and research activities throughout 2012, along with an opportunity for some lively discussion. The two-day seminar includes talks across areas such as ocean energy; hydrography and survey operations; aquaculture and fisheries; applied research; environment and heritage. Each of the sessions will focus on marine policy, research and industry topics. Day one begins with INFOMAR programme highlights throughout the year, specifically data acquisition; data management; data integration and interpretation, in addition to value-added applications. The Ocean Energy session focuses on marine renewable energy with talks from the Irish Maritime and Energy Resource Cluster, UCC, in addition to site selection examples from offshore Mayo, Clare and Galway. Irish company RealSim which specialises in integrating

high-resolution survey data with the simulation power of games engine technology will present two simulated marine environments – one for a new harbour development and the other for a conceptual offshore wind turbine site. Each shows different applications of game engine based physics to aid planning and development processes in marine environments.

Mapping to forecasting

Presentations under the theme Environmental and Habitat Mapping will highlight the EU’s Green Paper: From seabed mapping to ocean forecasting; the Marine Strategy Framework Directive; the UK marine conservation zone and an overview of INFOMAR data being used in an international context. Under Aquaculture and Fisheries, a representative from an BIM will discuss deep-sea fish farming; other topics will look at using INFOMAR data for modelling and site selection along with a presentation on Norway’s seabed mapping and environmental programme –MAREANO. The final talk of the day will showcase INFOMAR’s latest survey vessel, Cosantóir Bradán.

Survey operations Day two opens with the

session: Hydrography and Operations – an overview of INFOMAR’s survey operations along with industry applications presented by Irish SME SonarSim. This company provides hydrographic sonar simulation, processing and visualisation software and will discuss results and field trials of an automated vesselwaypoint planner for high resolution multibeam surveys. Proteus – an organisation offering bathymetry and benthic mapping solutions from Worldview2 satellite imagery – will discuss how satellite bathymetry contributes to the coastal mapping challenge. The next session, Mapping our Heritage includes presentations on shipwrecks, mapping our coastal heritage and relevant research. The seminar closes with an overview of applied research highlighting INFOMAR research collaborations with national and international institutes and universities. The seminar marks the end of a busy survey season for the INFOMAR programme with survey data acquired from all four of Ireland’s coastlines including Dundalk Bay, Co. Louth; Bunmahon, Co. Waterford; Inishbofin, Co Galway and Burtonport, Co. Donegal, inshore and offshore Cork and the Irish Sea.

GeoSeas Conference

CC was also host to a marine conference earlier in the week which was the final event of the EU Framework Programme 7 GeoSeas project. Over the two days, delegates heard papers on innovative tools and services tailored to the marine environment where access to good quality marine geological data is a priority. The Geo-Seas project has implemented an e-infrastructure to manage and deliver harmonised marine geological and geophysical data types from across Europe. It provides access to almost 80,000 data sets from 24 European data centres via the Geo-Seas portal. A suite of visualisation tools, developed by the project for the purposes of viewing selected data types, provides additional services to assist the user with data discovery and selection. Keynote speeches were delivered by Professor Alistair Borthwick (University College, Cork) and Wim Jansen (European Commission). Papers were also presented on EMODnet-Geology (European Marine Observation Data Network) by project coordinator Alan Stevenson, UCC’s recent involvement with IODP the ‘cold water coral IODP Expedition 307’ was presented by Andy Wheeler and SeaDataNet project co-ordinator Michele Fichaut presented an overview of the initiative providing context for the GeoSeas products.

Further information: www.geo-seas.eu www.emodnet-geology.eu www.seadatanet.org www.iodp.org

inshore ireland October/November 2012 17

marine r&d

New addition to INFOMAR vessel fleet

he latest addition to the inshore survey fleet is Cosantóir Bradán – formerly a salmon protection vessel with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). She is a shallow-draught 17m monohull fibreglass vessel with aluminium topsides, built in Cork by Aquastar. Following a suggestion from Michael Manley, Assistant Secretary at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, she was transferred to the

Survey operations update

RV Geo is a 7.5m red bay rib converted to a survey platform by INFOMAR staff to operate in the shallowest and most challenging waters. In her second year of operations, RV Geo along with RV Keary collected bathymetric data from Dundalk Bay, Co Louth around the islands of Inishbofin and Inishturk (Co. Galway and Co. Mayo, respectively) Killary Harbour, Co. Galway, Burtonport, Co. Donegal and Cork Harbour. Images A-C are examples of the surveys completed in 2012 (images may contain vertical exaggeration of the seabed topography to highlight features). For the 2012 survey season the RV Geo was fitted with a cabin extension and a generator to increase her survey capability. The vessel is also equipped with an aluminium frame above the bow, which is manually lowered into the water as a means to deploy the transducers the parts of the mapping equipment that produce the signal used to detect the seafloor.

INFOMAR programme under a Memorandum of Understanding with IFI. This vessel was refurbished in 2012 by the INFOMAR team for use as a seabed survey vessel and is equipped with a RESON 7101 multibeam echosounder system. The conversion to a survey vessel was approved by the Maritime Safety Office at the Department of Transport as of May 1, 2012. Vessel tours of Cosantóir Bradán and RV Keary will take place in Cork on Friday afternoon, October 12. Bathymetry data acquired by RV Keary and RV Geo in Dundalk Bay, Co Louth (INIS-Hydro) ITERREG IVA

3-dimensional view of bathymetry data acquired by RV Keary and RV Geo as part of a collaborative project with an BIM.

Cosantóir Bradán moored in Dun Laoghaire –the latest addition to the INFOMAR inshore survey fleet currently surveying Ireland’s bays and areas.

Environmental Research Institute at UCC

he Environmental Research Institute (ERI) hosted its th 5 Annual ERI Research Open Day on the topic of Marine Research @ Cork during marine week. The event featured presentations across a range of marine research areas where UCC has expertise, including aquaculture; fisheries; marine biotechnology; marine renewables; geomatics; coastal governance and economic opportunities in the maritime and energy sphere. In the keynote address Dr Peter Heffernan, CEO of the Marine discussed

the synergies between Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth - An Integrated Marine Plan for Ireland launched by An Taoiseach in July 2012 and the European Union Strategy for the Atlantic (EUSA) Action Plan. Geoffrey O’Sullivan, also of the Marine Institute, then outlined marine research funding opportunities in the Commission’s new Research and Innovation Funding Programme: Horizon 2020. The ERI also launched its 2012-2013 Directory of Marine Research at UCC at the event which showcases over 60 marine research projects currently underway at the University. It is available at www.eri.ucc.ie

Survey coverage acquired by RV Keary and RV Geo around the islands of Inishbofin, Inishturk, and Inishshark, west of Ireland

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marine r&d

NMCI visits the French Naval Academy at Toulon Gráinne Lynch

our personnel from the National Maritime College of Ireland recently undertook a visit to the Centre d’instruction naval (Naval Training Centre) in Toulon to exchange ideas and approaches to e-Learning in maritime training and education. This exchange was enabled by the Maritime Learning Network MarLeaNet EU project – a network of maritime training centres in Portugal, Spain, France and Ireland. The Naval Training Centre San Mandrier supports sailors throughout their careers in an impressive facility that extends over 110 hectares and two sites: Saint-Georges in the north – home to generations of engineers since 1936, and Cépet in the south, which forms the marine specialities in weapons and equipment (radar, electronic warfare, sonar, communications and information) and operations. The NTC delivers some impressive statistics of more than 400 courses; 8,000 students and trainees and 300,000 training days delivering everything from apprentice training to MA degrees. Located in Ringaskiddy Co Cork, the NMCI in

From left to right: PO EA Rory Galvin (Irish Naval Service), Sub Lt Caroline Noble (French Navy), Lt Cmdr Anthony Heery (Irish Naval Service), Alain Pomes (CEFCM-European Maritime Training Centre), Cmdr Bertrand Hudault (French Navy). Picture: Gráinne Lynch the second largest natural harbour in the world. A constituent college of Cork Institute of Technology, the NMCI is a state-of-the art facility that provides training and education for the Merchant Marine and the Irish Naval Service and includes survival training facilities, fire fighting / damage control training, confined space training, jetty and lifeboat facilities.

The one-day-meeting in France hosted experts from the Irish, Spanish and Portuguese navies and facilitated an excellent exchange of practices relating e-Learning methodologies. Anthony Heery, Michael Quinn and Rory Galvin from the Irish Naval Service travelled to France. The NMCI provides training to the seafarers, both the merchant marine and the

Irish Naval Service. Learning from other training centres and navies through projects like ‘MarLeaNet’ is incredibly important for developing best practices in maritime training and education here in Ireland. Access to continued training throughout a seafarer’s career is essential and distance learning has always played a role. e-Learning is becoming increasingly popular as telecommunications

technologies and broadband services on board ships become increasingly accessible. For more information on the MarLeaNet project visit www.marleanet.com. National Maritime College of Ireland Open Day on Tuesday 23 October 2012, 10.00am - 3.00pm. For Group Bookings contact +353 21 4970607. www.nmci.ie (see page 25)

Aerial view of the Centre d’instruction naval (Naval Training Centre) Aerial view of the Centre d’instruction naval (Naval Training Centre) in in Saint-Mandrier with Cépet at the centre, the marine specialties in Saint-Mandrier, with Saint-Georges, the marine engineering training weapons and equipment facility. Picture: CIN centre to the fore. Picture: CIN

inshore ireland October/November 2012 19

marine r&d

Thousands discover science at Sea2Sky

Cushla DromgoolRegan

housands of visitors attended the Sea2Sky European Researchers Night in Salthill, Co Galway on September 28, which was a celebration of the natural physical world from the marine through the atmosphere and into space. Interactive stands at the Galway Bay Hotel highlighted the work of the Marine Institute and Ireland’s rich and diverse marine ecosystem. Máire Geoghegan-Quinn – European Commissioner for Research, Innovation and

Science, officially opened the event, organised by NUI Galway in collaboration with the Marine Institute, Galway Atlantaquaria, and CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory, Cork. “The Sea2Sky event is all about discovering science in a fun way and raising interest in research careers among young people. Around 350 cities – from Akureyri in Iceland to Nicosia in Cyprus – participated. We need more researchers in Europe, and I hope that students will take inspiration from the victory of Ireland’s Mark James Kelly and Eric Doyle, who won first prize in the European Contest for Young Scientists earlier this week,” remarked the Commissioner.

“Success of the Sea2Sky event has provided a great opportunity for the wider community to engage with scientists and researchers at a local level in Galway and to learn about Ireland’s marine resource which is ten times the size of its land mass,” remarked Dr Peter Heffernan, CEO of the Marine Institute. “The excitement and enthusiasm, particularly among the many students that visited the exhibition, was very tangible. Indeed some of them may well be inspired to go on to make major scientific discoveries in their future careers or become entrepreneurs who will tap into the huge potential of Ireland’s ocean wealth,” he added. Celebrating marine science and research, the Marine Institute greeted visitors with some of Ireland’s most impressive marine science, technology and equipment: The Remotely Operated

Vehicle Holland 1 has been used in exciting surveys including the discovery last year of a field of hydrothermal vents along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge as well as recent surveys closer to home such as the Whittard Canyons along the Continental Shelf. The ROV’s oerations team also showcased more of the ground-breaking work involving RV Celtic Explorer and RV Celtic Voyager, as well as the specialised equipment used with ROV Holland 1. Amazing samples and film footage of life and land under the sea at depths of 3,000m were shown, including cold water corals along the continental shelf, to the newly discovered hydrothermal vents along the mid-Atlantic ridge. Some of this footage will be shown in the National Geographic series Alien Deep – Its Alive which is to air on October 28 on the National Geographic Channel.

Weather forecasting

The Weather Buoy and weather monitoring team provided information about gathering vital data for weather forecasts, as well as gale and swell warnings – some of which have recorded Ireland’s largest waves at sea. Showing Life in a Drop of Seawater, the phytoplankton team promoted the Marine Institute’s role in monitoring algal blooms and highlighted their work in the national shellfish food safety programmes. The Advanced Mapping team provided a display on the INFOMAR programme, seabed mapping and the extent and importance of Ireland’s 220 million acre marine resource.

Sea2Sky was funded under the European Union’s Marie Curie Programme and by the Forfás programme Discover Science & Engineering.

Status of the native oyster Oliver Tully & Sarah Clarke Marine Institute

he native oyster (Ostrea edulis), which in the 19th century was a staple food item for many Irish people, is today listed as a threatened species. It has disappeared from many areas where it previously supported extensive fisheries, such as the Irish Sea and Dublin Bay. Surveys completed over the past two years by the Marine Institute and BIM, show that its stronghold is some bays on the west coast. Tralee Bay holds the highest biomass, while there are lesser stocks in Galway, Kilkieran, Clew, Blacksod Bays and L. Swilly. All these areas usually support annual autumn fisheries for native oyster. Nationally the standing stock may be between 1,000-1,500 tonnes but over 80% of this is in inner Tralee Bay. This bed is, therefore, very important to the continued survival of native oyster and oyster fisheries in Ireland. Seabed ecology Although native oyster is not listed as a designated species in the EU Habitats Directive (HD), it plays a potentially important role in the ecology of the seabed. Concentrations of oyster shell can provide habitat for other species, and living oyster beds (as with other bivalve species) provide

important ecosystem functions such as bio-filtration, nutrient removal and provides fish habitat. This role is now being recognised by the inclusion of conservation objectives for oyster habitat within marine Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) in Ireland by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. All the main oyster producing areas in Ireland are within SACs. This will mean that the ecological function, distribution and abundance of native oyster will need to be explicitly managed if these habitats are to achieve favourable conservation status as required by the HD. Translating conservation objectives for oyster habitat into management objectives for oyster fisheries will, therefore, be an important task for fishery and conservation managers alike in these sites. Although the feasibility of re-building stocks also depends on environmental conditions, as they affect recruitment, developing and implementing long-term fishery management plans could lead to increased production, and in parallel fulfil the conservation objectives for the species. Management of other threats to native oyster such as poor water quality, disease and competition with Pacific oyster will be important in achieving these objectives. A broader discussion of these issues can be found in Irish Fisheries Investigations Series No 24/2012 published by the Marine Institute.

The Research Vessel Operations team show some of the specialised equipment used with the ROV Holland 1 at the Sea2Sky event.

National Geographic TV series Alien Deep to broadcast later this month

he Alien Deep –it’s a place in the sea thousands of feet beneath the surface – far from the first sliver of light where the planet’s last and greatest secrets hide in the cold darkness of endless night. In this five-part series, Dr Robert Ballard, – famed explorer who found the Titanic at its final resting place, takes viewers into these underwater worlds where no man has gone before. The series commences

on October 21; the second episode– It’s Alive – featuring the discovery of smoking vents on the mid Atlantic Ridge by a team of Irish and UK scientists onboard RV Celtic Explorer,using the ROV Holland 1, will broadcast on October 28 at 6pm on the Sky’s National Geographic Channel (channel 526) and also UPC (channel 215). The series takes viewers into an underwater world 3,000m deep where on the slopes of the MidOcean ridges that divide the earth’s tectonic plates,

are formations called chimneys. There, molten lava superheats the ocean mixing in the nutrients and hardening magma allowing life to thrive against the odds. The discovery of the vent field was made by a team of scientists led by Dr Andy Wheeler, University College Cork, together with the National University of Ireland (NUI) Galway, Geological Survey of Ireland and University of Southampton and National Oceanography Centre in the UK.

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marine r&d

Belfast sets new cruise passenger record in 2012

uoyant cruise business to Belfast has delivered a boost to the local economy after a recordbreaking summer season. Forty-four cruise ship arrivals brought close to 75,000 passengers and crew to the city as part of the Cruise Belfast marketing partnership between Belfast Visitor & Convention Bureau (BVCB) and Belfast Harbour. One of the last of the giant ships to arrive was the 290 metre Emerald Princess with 3,100 passengers. The final cruise liner visit of the 2012 season was MS AMADEA with 900 passengers and crew. Since the first cruise ship docked in 1996, more than half a million passengers and crew have sailed into Belfast Harbour to explore

a city famous for its rich maritime heritage. “Year-on-year we’re building the cruise business and 2012 has delivered a record number of ships to the port. Breaking the 500,000 cruise visitor barrier is a fantastic achievement and testament to the efforts of Belfast Harbour and BVCB working together,” remarked Tony McAuley, Belfast Harbour . He added that the opening of the £76m Titanic Belfast and the new Visitors Centre at the Giant’s Causeway earlier this year, together with the 2012 cultural programme and events had created a focus and impact for sales and marketing activity: “Titanic is a global brand and the iconic building on the very site that the world

famous luxury liner was designed, built and launched has had significant impact on our marketing activities and in attracting international visitors to Belfast.” Marketing initiative Belfast’s success in ensuring the city is scheduled as a stopover on some of Northern Europe’s biggest cruise itineraries (17 cruise lines included Belfast in their ship’s itineraries this year ) is the result of the sales and marketing by Cruise Belfast in the US, German, French and GB markets, he added. “Work is already underway to attract and secure cruise ships for 2014/15.” Anne McMullan from BVCB said that cruise travel globally was one of the fastest growing and highly competitive areas of tourism: “The record-breaking cruise ship numbers arriving in Belfast is testament to the city’s tourism success. Already 50 ships are scheduled for 2013, bringing over 100,000 visitors to the city. This also coincides with the year that Belfast hosts the World Police and Fire Games which will bring an estimated 25,000 visitors.”

She added that cruise ships were now a “vital part of the tourism mix” and were a “visible measure” of Cruise Belfast’s success in attracting business to Belfast: “We’re now competing effectively against other European destinations, demonstrating that the billion pound investment in the city’s tourism

infrastructure, improving the visitor experience and attracting world-class events, is now paying off.” McAuley said the port was “delighted to be an integral part of Belfast’s successful tourism industry” and to work with BVCB in further developing and maximising the opportunities for cruise tourism to Belfast and Northern Ireland.

Commission to drive blue growth initiatives in the marine and maritime sectors

Communication on blue growth adopted by the European Commission last month presents positive indications for growth and employment in the marine and maritime sectors, which provide jobs for 5.4 million people and contribute gross value-added of around €500bm and are projected to increase to 7 million and nearly €600bn respectively by 2020. To realise this potential, the Commission contends that obstacles hindering growth must be removed and that smart solutions to boost new sectors need to be implemented. ‘By promoting marine research and innovation, by supporting innovative SMEs, by addressing skills needs and by encouraging innovative products and solutions, Europe can unlock the untapped potential for growth in its blue economy while safeguarding biodiversity and protecting the environment.’ Traditional sectors such as maritime transport and maritime/ coastal tourism are set to gain in competitiveness. Growing and emerging sectors such as ocean renewable energy and blue biotechnology can become a key to creating more jobs, cleaner energy, and more products and services.’ This Communication is being seen as a process that will place the blue economy firmly on the agenda of Member States, regions, enterprise and civil society. It describes how Member States and EU policies are already supporting the blue economy and identifies five specific areas: »» maritime, coastal and cruise tourism »» blue energy »» marine mineral resources »» aquaculture, and »» blue biotechnology Initiatives will be launched shortly in consultation with Member States and relevant stakeholders to explore and develop growth potential in these areas, along with communications on coastal and maritime tourism; ocean energy; blue biotechnology and marine mineral mining, as well as guidelines on aquaculture. “All parts of Europe’s economy are essential to lifting us through this difficult period. The blue economy presents opportunities for sustainable economic growth in both established and emerging marine and maritime sectors,” remarked Maria Damanaki, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries. “Innovation, enterprise and dynamism characterise these sectors of Europe’s economy. Blue growth is about getting everybody – starting from the institutions and Member States, to regions and SMEs – to work towards ensuring that we overcome existing challenges to ensure the most productive and sustainable use of what our seas and coasts offer.”

‘Blue Growth’ is the contribution of the EU’s Integrated Maritime Policy to achieving the goals of the Europe 2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. The Blue Growth study found that coastal and maritime tourism was the biggest maritime sector in terms of gross value-added and employment and is expected to grow by 2 - 3% by 2020, while cruise tourism is expected to create 100,000 new jobs by 2020 compared to 2010. For more information: http://ec.europa.eu/

maritimeaffairs/policy/blue_growth/index_en.htm

inshore ireland October/November 2012 21

fisheries

Using innovation to drive profit

he first in a series of innovation workshops in the Irish seafood sector took place in BIM’s Seafood Development Centre in Clonakilty Co

Cork last month. Entitled Driving Profit Through Innovation, the workshop focused on how innovation processes can benefit a company through panel discussions and breakout sessions. Topics covered included how

Alan Kingston, Glenilen; Susan Steele and Rachael Murphy, BIM and Michael O’Neill, Irish Atlantic Salt.

Indigenous Irish food product seeks unique status

formal process has commenced to seek EU recognition of the unique characteristics of Irish Salmon. It began with Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney TD launching a national consultation process on the application to register Irish Salmon as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). The application will be forwarded to the European Commission for review in accordance with Council Regulation (EC) No 510/2006. PGIs are intended to highlight special product qualities by indicating their origin and preserve cultural traditions. Granting of an intellectual property protection to Irish Salmon would mean that this name could only be used by producers of the product within the specified region. “Publication of the specification document follows a period of engagement between the producer groups, BIM, DAFM and the DARD in Northern Ireland, and I’m delighted to see further progress in recognising the quality of Irish foods…I would encourage producers of regional products to discuss possible applications with my Department,” remarked Minister Coveney.

adding value to seafood is a key priority for the sector; how an idea is generated and brought to market; how new products survive the market and how to reduce costs to get product to key markets using innovative methods, and were delivered by experts in BIM, Tesco Ireland, University College Cork, Glanbia, Bullseye Marketing, Oakland International, Enterprise Ireland and Bord Bia. Alan Kingston of Glenilen Farms also delivered a case study on how they have embraced innovation across all elements of their business and how they have developed their brand. Alan’s story particularly resonated with the industry as he explained how he and his wife have built up his father’s farm to an international success story whilst staying true to the beliefs of the company. Donal Buckley, BIM’s Business Development & Innovation Manager explains the rationale behind the series; “The workshops allowed seafood companies to hear first hand from experts across the food industry on how innovation is key to increasing sales and profitability.” He added that Ireland has “excellent raw material at its disposal” and that maximising the added-value of exports was a “crucial part” of a growth strategy. “BIM’s Seafood Development Centre in partnership with industry has achieved a great deal since it opened three years ago. This strategy is winning – seafood exports continue to remain buoyant and are up 17% to over €40m compared to last year,” he added. “The workshop brought in all aspects and joined the dots by showing how to come up with new ideas, where the markets are, how to get to them and how to make the products work,” remarked John Holland, Galway Bay Seafoods. This workshop was one of five in the SDC’s autumn series covering packaging; ingredients; smoking and seaweed. The centre is also starting a Diploma in Seafood Innovation in conjunction with University College Cork on October 19.

Workshop Programme November 6: Innovative Ingredients for Seafood November 20: Innovative Smoking Technologies for Seafood December 12: Seaweed Innovation The cost per workshop is €50 including lunch. Details from Corcoran@bim.ie or phone 01 214 4151

Seated left to right: Majella Ní Chríocháin, Comhar na nOilean; Tadgh Ó Conghaile, Udaras na Gaeltachta; Séamus Breathnach, BIM; Susan Grieve, FARNET geographic expert for UK and Ireland; Patrick Mullins, Galway Bay Inshore Fisherman’s Association. Standing left to right: Alan O’Sullivan, Comharchumann Sliogeisc, Connemara; Michael O’Malley, Development Association/Aquaculture; Simon Murray, Inis Bofin Development Association; Ger Concannon, West Clare Lobstermen’s Association; Paddy Crowe, Comhair Caomhan, Inis Oirr; John Hickey, BIM Regional FLAG Coordinator, Morgan Ó Conchubhair, Comharchumann, Sailearna; Eithne Nic Dhonnachadha, Galway VEC; Gerry O’Halloran, Ocean West Shellfish Exporter; Michael Fitzsimons, Failte Ireland. Photo Andrew Downes

Front row from left: Helena Dempsey WLD; Kitt Dunne, Marine Tourism; John Hickey, BIM; Susan Grieve, FARNET geographic expert for UK and Ireland; Eugene Bates, fishing representative; Amanda Byrne, Wexford County Council. Back row from left: Anthony Rice, fishing representative; Tara Kenny, Failte Ireland; Seamus Breathnach, BIM; Richard Walsh, fishing representative; Donal O’Byrne, community representative; Cliona Mhic Giolla Chuda, Irish Shellfish Association; Noel McDonagh, Fishing Representative; Mary Walsh, VEC Waterford. Photo Patrick Browne

Fisheries action groups established in the southeast and west

ollowing the launch of the Axis 4 – Sustainable Development of Fishery Dependent Areas Programme by BIM in June– the first two Fisheries Local Action Groups or FLAGs were launched last month. The programme aims to empower fishing and aquaculture reliant communities to utilise valuable local resources to develop and implement a strategy that will increase revenue and employment opportunities for their respective areas. Organised by BIM FLAG coordinators John Hickey (southeast) and Seamus Breathnach (west), the two groups include fisheries, community, county council and tourism local representatives. Each FLAG is responsible for delivering an integrated development strategy for their area on a devolved basis which identifies suitable projects requiring financial or expert assistance. Once developed, a call for projects will go out to individuals and local communities. To qualify for funding, projects must satisfy specific criteria. For example, projects must be based in coastal areas (with the exception of areas of populations in excess of 15,000) and not located more than 10kms from the sea. Projects must also have a clearly identifiable marine connection or provide a specific benefit to a fishing region. In many cases, beneficiaries will be required to be either workers in the fisheries sector or persons with a job linked to the sector. Overseeing the programme, a National Implementation Board comprising representatives from State organisations and the FLAGS will provide guidance and co-ordination, while BIM will act as facilitator and oversee overall administration. The remaining four FLAGs (northeast, southwest, northwest and north) are expected to be in place by the end of the year.

22 inshore ireland October/November 2012

crow’s nest

MOD70 European Tour in Dún Laoghaire Cian Gallagher

he year of sailing spectacles in Ireland just doesn’t want to end, it seems. The National Yacht Club and Dún Laoghaire Harbour recently played host to one of the newest classes of one-design vessels - the Multi-Hull One Design (MOD) 70ft trimaran. A European tour of more than 5,000 nautical miles, five offshore races and inshore competitions brought the five-strong fleet from Kiel in northern Germany to Dún Laoghaire, Cascais in Portugal; Marseille and finally to Genoa in Italy.

Ocean-racing circuit

Including Ireland on the circuit confirmed yet again that Ireland is now a premier destination for these top-ranking ocean racing events. National Yacht Club sailing manager Olivier Prouveur, said the club was “honoured and delighted” that the MOD70 Class had entrusted them with organising the first stop-over of this inaugural European Tour. “Welcoming these state-ofthe-art boats, skippered and crewed by the best offshore sailors in the world was one

of the highlights in the long history of the National Yacht Club hosting international events,” he told Inshore Ireland. Skippered largely by sailors raised on diets of the Volvo, Vendée Globe, Figaro, Route de Rhum, and other extreme sailing series, this new circuit is the second in a projected schedule spanning ten years for the MOD70s. Their inaugural KRYS Ocean Race from New York to Brest in July, taking a mere four days to complete, has added to the momentum among followers of big boat sailing which the MOD70 European Tour hopes to develop.

Spectacle at Scotman’s Bay

Visitors to Dun Laoghaire were treated to a mix of entertainment and vibrant food stations along the East pier and Glasthule promenade throughout the three-day display of multi-hull sailing in Scotsman’s Bay. Ireland’s Olympic 2012 sailor Ger Owens was on hand to provide a colourful running commentary on the tactics each boat was using as they vied for race honours. The fleet’s ambassador vessel for the event was Race for Water which the organisers, Marco Simeoni, Franck David and Steve Rasmussin, liveried to promote the message of water conservation, respect

for the seas and protection of oceans against pollution by plastics. On board the vessels, the essence of economy is clear with space designed to eke every possible knot on the water. Since these are one-design boats, it is the skill of the skipper and crew trimming and backing the 400m2 downwind sails on these incredible wave-cutting machines that separate the boats. Speeds north of 25 knots are regularly achieved and they have even been known to cover over 700 miles in one day. Frank David, CEO of the MOD70 tour told Inshore Ireland that the Dún Laoghaire stopover had been a resounding success: “The close finish between the first three boats followed by the excellent sailing conditions over the weekend provided a great spectacle to the thousands of spectators. “The organisation and technical support provided by the National Yacht Club, along with the enthusiasm shown by the local community, which was much appreciated by the sailors, are reasons why we look forward to returning to Ireland next year,” he added. The race can be tracked at www.multionedesign.com, or via social media channels and the MOD70 app.

Jacques Guichard (Trimmer/No1) and Pascal Bidégorry (Helmsman/Trimmer) Spindrift racing, trim sails during the inshore race in Scotman’s Bay All Photos G Mills

inshore ireland October/November 2012 23

crow’s nest

the

crow's nest

All Photos G Mills

Capital hosts maritime showcase of traditional sail and seamanship

n estimated 1.4 million people from across the island of Ireland and beyond gathered in Dublin in August for the four-day Tall Ships Race 2012 festival. The 40-strong fleet comprising many different classes of vessels lined the city’s north and south quays,

creating a maritime scene reminiscence of times gone by. The Naval Service LE Emer led the parade of sail out of the port on departure Sunday along a course towards Dún Laoghaire before taking a 21gun salute that saw the fleet disperse towards Howth on the north side of Dublin bay. “The festival was a huge

success and exceeded all expectations,” remarked Leo Varadkar, minister for Transport, Tourist and Sport, who was on board LE Emer, along with the Lord Mayor of Dublin and Admiral of The Port Naoise O’Muirí. At the time of going to press, details were not available on the projected economic impact to Dublin city.

24 inshore ireland October/November 2012

coffee break

8 9

10 11

Crossword FUN Across

Down

2. Ships (7)

1. Hedge (7)

7. Uncover (4)

2. Locale (5)

8. Editable Mollusc (4)

3. Squirts (6)

9. Norwegian name of Norway (5)

4 Builds (6)

10. Force (6) 12

14 16

6. Umbilicus (5)

11. Active (6) 12. Dress with care (5)

14. An instant (5) 19. Lassoing (6)

22. Spanish River (5) 23. Trash (4)

22 23

13. Error (7) 15. Confer (7) 16. Declares (6) 17. Source (6)

21. Against (6)

5. Run Hastily (7)

18 Russian Spacecraft (5) 20. Dough (5)

24. Confer (4)

25. Spirit (7)

Stuck for an answer?

You’ll find the solution on www.inshore-ireland.com

Anthology Gillian Mills

marleanet maritime learning network

The European passport to maritime skills

Investing in our common future For further information please contact Gráinne Lynch Research Development | National Maritime College of Ireland E: grainne.lynch@nmci.ie T: +353 21 433 5716 W: www.nmci.ie or www.imerc.ie Co-ﬁnanced with the support of the European Union ERDF Atlantic Area Programme

ATLANTIC AREA Transnational Programme ESPACIO ATLÁNTICO Programa Transnacional ESPACE ATLANTIQUE Programme Transnational ESPAÇO ATLÂNTICO Programa Transnacional

INVESTING IN OUR COMMON FUTURE

European Union

European Regional Development Fund

nthology for a River edited by Terry Murray is a collection of poems by poets and bards from Ireland, Britain and the USA who have an interest and/or affinity with the River Shannon. But this is no ordinary volume; it is a ‘call to aid in praise or defence of the Shannon,’ writes Gery Siney of the River Shannon Protection Alliance, in the foreword. The volume is dedicated to the ‘majestic River Shannon, the longest and most revered river in Ireland and Great Britain. It has sustained life for over one million people who live and work within its catchment, and has unselfishly shared its waters with many more millions of pleasure seeking boaters, anglers, sportsmen and women, swimmers and numerous social pursuits from all over Ireland and well beyond its shores.’ But a serious threat looms, Siney adds, with the ‘alarming proposal put forward by the powers that be in Dublin to construct a pipeline of some 100 miles to pump water to the capital at a rate of many hundreds of millions of litres per day.’ This proposal would amount to ‘nothing short of the plunder of Ireland’s premier waterway’, and a call has gone out for ‘sanity to prevail’, he says. Close to forty verses complete the Anthology. ‘I will leave it to you dear reader to feast your senses on the passion, insight and lyricism which decorate these pages and I challenge you not to be enriched, edified, moved, exhilarated, and yes saddened too by the sheer artistry and brilliance of the works….’ he concludes.

Anthology for a River in aid of the RSPA is available from selected retail outlets (e.g. Kieron’s Fishing Stand and I’ve Got Worms Tackle Store Limerick City) for €10; via all branches of the RSPA (Athlone, Dromineer, Limerick) and online at www. limerickwriterscentre.com and on Amazon.

inshore ireland October/November 2012 25

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Jewellery Box – Ireland’s Hidden Gems

for a river

rish photographer Daragh Muldowney recently exhibited his collection of photographs of rock pools Jewellery Box – Ireland’s Hidden Gems at the Consulate General of Ireland, New York, and will be taking the exhibition to Atlanta later in the year where he will continue to showcase his unique work. Interest in Muldowney’s photography has been growing since he first exhibited on St Stephen’s Green in Dublin ten years ago when he was hailed as one of Ireland’s ‘up and coming artists.’ His work has taken him to New Zealand, US, Europe as well as the Sahara Desert and the glaciers in Iceland. His interest in rock pools, however, drew Muldowney back to the shores of Ireland in 2010 where he travelled 3,143 miles around the coast in his campervan, capturing over one thousand photographs in seventeen counties. A selection of these contemporary photographs was first exhibited in Dublin two years ago. “Having the opportunity to share some of this work with the Irish Diaspora in the US has given me a great opportunity to showcase Ireland and its wonderful marine resource on

our doorstep,” says Muldowney. Sixty-five of the his images feature in this special hardback edition which was launched at the Science Gallery in Dublin earlier this month. All seventeen counties are represented by at least one image where Muldowney aims to show that each county has its unique stunning beauty. “The photographs illustrate the beauty of seaweeds, shells and water reflections and provide a gentle reminder of the beauty of our country as well as our

planet which we can sometimes overlook,” he says. Each photograph depicts colours, textures and patterns that reflect the variations in the landscape, geology and life of our shores. They also capture the elements as they occur naturally or as abstract wonders without the use of artificial light or filters. Daragh’s work is available in limited editions and is available in different finishes from www. dulra.com. He will be also exhibiting at the Christmas Craft Fair, Dublin, December 5-9.

Competition The author has generously provided two copies of Jewellery Box – Ireland’s Hidden Gems as prizes.

Question:

How many coastal counties did Daragh visit? Answers to mills@ inshore-ireland. com or to 3 Hillview Cottages, Pottery Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin. Closing date November 9.

NaT IoNal MaRIT IME CollEgE oF IRElaNd

let’s sea what you’re made of

There are excellent employment opportunities for careers within the maritime industry - at the moment there is a severe shortage of trained personnel. Check out what we have on offer at www.nmci.ie

B.Sc Nautical Science B.Eng in Marine & Plant Engineering B.Eng Marine Electrotechnology Higher Certificate in Science in Nautical Studies

y n da ope t 2012 c pm 23 O - 3.00 0 am 10.0

Proposal to pump millions of litres of water to Dublin.

Photo G Mills

Competition The RSPA has generously provided two copies of “Anthology for a River” as prizes.

Question:

What is the distance of the proposed pipeline? Answers to mills@inshore-ireland.com or 3 Hillview Cottages, Pottery Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin . Closing date November 9.

National Maritime College of Ireland Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork, Ireland Telephone: 021-4970600 E-mail: reception@nmci.ie

www.nmci.ie

For further information on any of the above please contact NMCI or find us on

26 inshore ireland October/November 2012

coffee break

The view from Jerry Early’s kitchen window

Castlebay, Isle of Barra, Outer Hebrides (looking south)

Separated by sea but united by common maritime culture Gillian Mills

úthchas na Mara/ Dúthas na Mara (Belonging to the Sea) is an exploratory work into conflict that two separate Gaelic-speaking island communities – one in Ireland and one in Scotland– are currently embroiled in concerning processes by government bodies whose remit it is to protect aspects of the natural environment in which the islanders live. Authors Iain McKinnon (Scottish Crofting Federation) and Ruth Brennan (Scottish Association of Marine Science) describe the concerns of fishermen who believe their livelihood and way of life is being threatened by ‘powerful institutions who are not listening to them.’ On Barra the dispute centres on proposals by the Scottish Natural Heritage to designate two European marine conservation areas in waters off the island. Meanwhile on Donegal islands, including Arranmore, communities are opposed to the moratorium on drift-net fishing for salmon in their local waters. The authors stress that the purpose of this work is to neither justify nor invalidate or argue for or against their concerns but instead to ‘look behind the political antagonism and to explore share maritime traditions and principles of belief and conduct in these two Gaelic speaking communities, divided by State boundaries but united in aspects of language and culture.’ It also examines international policy instruments relevant to traditional knowledge and cultural heritage.

Sense of belonging According to the authors

their research suggests that at the heart of these beliefs and conduct is a particular Gaelic expression of a feeling universally potential in human beings: the sense of belonging to a home place, and of responsibility for that place. ‘In the Gaelic context, this feeling – described by the great Scottish Gaelic scholar John MacInnes as a form of “emotional energy” – is encapsulated by the not easily translatable word “dúchas” (Irish) or “dúthchas” (Scottish).’ The authors add that while dúchas/dúthchas is a word of the land, it derives from the Gaelic word “dú/dúth” which can mean “earth” or “land”. ‘Our research suggests that the emotional energy of belonging and responsibility the word conveys extends to the waters around the homeland. Therefore what we are seeking to describe is dúchas/ dúthchas na mara – the sense of belonging to the sea – and the role this sense of belonging plays in the life of these island communities. The narrative created by McKinnon and Brennan is of island life; knowledge of the sea and its place in their stories, histories and legends. ‘How they made a living from the sea; of how they have named and renamed it to suit their needs on and from the sea; of how it has helped to shape their conduct and beliefs; of the change that technologies have brought to their relationship with it. McKinnon and Brennan say that while fishermen’s knowledge of the seas may not have the ‘perceived precision’ characteristic of natural science’s understanding of the marine environment, ‘fishermen’s knowledge is arguably, more complete in that it is closer to a total field of understanding, having both practical and emotional power’.

Local knowledge

Arranmore islander Jerry Early explains how he is able to tell by the state of the

water visible from his kitchen window on the east side of island whether he will be able to fish that day to the west, several miles away and out of sight of his home. “The west side is generally less fished because the chances of loss are greater. If the water is breaking white on the Mallagh Rocks, then I will fish to the east side but if the swell is not breaking on the rocks then I can fish further to the west.” The authors also examine the meaningful information about the seas often found in Gaelic place-names, which they say would be hidden to the non-Gaelic speaker. ‘For instance, in some parts of the Western Isles of Scotland, it is not uncommon to hear islanders talking about going “down” to the north and “up” to the south. The same way of describing direction is also used on Arranmore where one of the older fishermen said that as a young man he used to fish “down to Malin” – which is to the north of Arranmore – and “up” as far as Mayo to the south.’ The reason, explain the authors, may be that describing direction in this way is ‘natural in a culture in which maps (where north is “up” and south is “down”) were not the primary source of travel information. ‘Instead…much of the knowledge needed to ensure safe passage at sea was held in the head and gathered from careful observation of the natural world. It may be that the direction of the prevailing winds (from the south-west) influenced their thinking. Or perhaps the sun, as a point of reference was looked “up” to – and for the Gael when it appears in the sky at all, the sun is generally to the south.’

Elder wisdom

Under the heading ‘Voices from an older generation’ a sense of changing attitudes was expressed by elder fishermen, one of whom prefaced his remark:

“Life then, it was hard but was fun because everyone was in the same boat. Nowadays everyone is in their own boat, and that’s the difference.” For him, when he would have fished by sail and oar in his youth, change came when the power of boats increased to the extent they could “tow nets the size of football pitches”, which combined with “the greed of man” was responsible for the loss of stocks. It is generally felt among this generation that the ‘marriage of technology and a human propensity for greed’ has contributed to the demise of the herring and salmon fisheries around the Arranmore. Similarly they contend the salmon drift-netters were affected by this change. “They were cleaning up all the salmon. There was maybe forty of fifty boats at this carry-on…they weren’t coming in with a hundred salmon at all, they were coming in with a thousand salmon.” But greed however was not confined to fishermen but extended to salmon anglers “and also to farmers putting chemicals on their fields without taking into account the consequences”. The authors note a ‘real fear’ among island people that if the ability to fish is removed

then the island’s very reason for being a place of human habitation begins to unravel. In summary, the authors contend that the existence of a strong body of traditional knowledge alongside international law that gives value to this knowledge has the potential to connect different ways of knowing the marine environment. ‘It is likely that the current lack of connection between these different ways of understanding the world contributes fundamentally to the ongoing conflicts on the islands. We believe that finding a place for each of these “worlds” within the other could give rise to a richer way of knowing and understanding the seas in which we belong.’

Note:

The UNESCO Convention on the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage 2003 provides international protection for the intangible aspects of cultural diversity. The ICH Convention entered into force on 20 April 2006 but as yet to be ratified by the UK or Ireland. Electronic version is available at http://wwwl. crofting.org/uploads/news/ CCS_ebook.pdf

Competition The publisher has generously provided two copies of Dúthchas na Mara/Dúthas na Mara, as prizes. Question: What is the name of the rocks that Jerry Early checks for weather conditions? Answers to mills@inshore-ireland.com or 3 Hillview Cottages, Pottery Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin. Closing date November 9.

inshore ireland October/November 2012 27

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Fire & Ice Gery Flynn

ire & Ice by John Joyce is painstakingly researched and carefully plotted in the style of Dan Brown, Michael Crichton or Tom Clancy. It will appeal to a wide range of readers across a broad section of interests: suspense; adventure and romance; to historic, military and the paranormal. With 2012 the fiftieth anniversary of the Cuban Missile Crisis, many people are aware just how close the world came to nuclear annihilation. Few however realise that at the time, four Russian submarines armed with nuclear-tipped torpedoes - were poised to

strike at US Naval forces around Cuba. Fortunately, these were diesel-powered vessels with limited underwater speed and endurance and were quickly detected by US destroyers and forced to back off. But what if an atomic-powered Russian submarine, with superior underwater speed and limitless endurance had been ordered to attack…? This is the premise of the novel that follows the Russian nuclear submarine K-6 as it runs a US Naval forces gauntlet from the Arctic to the Caribbean to carry out what its captain believes are authentic orders to sink the aircraft carrier USS Essex with an atomic torpedo.

Available from bookshops, from Amazon in Kindle and hard copy editions, and directly from www.spindriftpress.com ISBN: 978-09557637-3-1. Price: €11.99 / £9.99

Competition

The author has generously offered five copies as prizes. Question: What is the name of the Russian nuclear submarine? Answers to mills@inshoreireland.com or by post to 3 Hillview Cottages, Pottery Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. Closing date November 9.

Fire & Ice author, John Joyce

COMPETITION Inshore Ireland marine fish and shellfish print. Museum quality A2 (420mm x 600mm) archival Giclée print reproduction (watermarqued and signed) of Vincent Hyland’s hand-painted illustration.

To Enter:

‘Like’ both Inshore Ireland and Wild Derrynane’s Facebook pages: www.facebook.com/Derrynane and www.facebook.com/ InshoreIreland and post a message, “Oct/Nov Competition” before November 9th and we’ll randomly select a winner whom we’ll contact for a postal address.

Good luck!

Congratulations to last month’s competition winners! Skellig Lighthouse by Vincent Hyland (Gary Collins, Macroom Co Cork) Sailing the Irish Famine Tall Ship Jeanie Johnston (Martin Kelly, Killybegs and Feargal O’Leary, Dublin) Many thanks to Wild Derrynane and The Collins Press for their generous prizes.

28 inshore ireland October/November 2012

coastline news

The movement for litter free seas!

oastal custodians participated in Ireland’s Big Beach Clean and joined hundreds of thousands of people worldwide for the 27th Annual International Coastal Clean-up on September

14-16. The Big Beach Clean is an initiative organised as part of An Taisce’s Clean Coasts Programme and is the world’s largest volunteer effort to help protect beaches, seas and marine life. Volunteers from 152 countries removed litter and debris, keeping track of every piece of litter they found. Clean Coasts Ireland will use this information to produce a snapshot of the problem of marine litter and also share the information with the international Ocean Conservancy to form part of the worldwide survey. “Marine litter is a global concern, affecting all the oceans of the world. Every year, millions and millions of tonnes of litter end up in our seas, posing environmental, economic, health and aesthetic problems. “All action no matter how small makes a difference and so we’re very proud of the work of An Taisce’s Coastcare groups who participated in this year’s Big Beach Clean,” remarked Annabel FitzGerald, Coastal Programmes Manager, An Taisce Clean Coasts Ireland engages people in protecting our beaches seas and marine life for future generations www. cleancoastsireland.org

Volunteers on Dollymount Strand, Dublin

Litter free zone earns south coast island 2012 Tidy Island Award Helen Riddell

ere Island has won the Tidy Island Award in the 2012 Tidy Towns Competition for the sixth consecutive year. The island scored 294 points out of a maximum of 400, increasing its scoring from last year by two points. “All in all, the buildings and their surroundings were well presented. I found the island to be virtually litter-free on the day of my visit. It’s clear that the local community is conscious of the need for ongoing vigilance regarding litter. Well done. It is also evident that the children are following the good example,”

commented the adjudicator. Bere Island first entered the competition in 2001, and achieved their first win in 2007. As a result of their success, the Island’s Tourism and Environmental Group dedicated a Tidy Island section and have instigated, an all year clean up initiative that focused on minimising waste. Bere Island’s state-of-the-art recycling centre is instrumental in this, and has drastically reduced the amount of waste leaving the island. Paper is shredded and reused as bedding for farm and domestic animals and a glass crusher renders all glass into reusable fragments for use in the construction industry or as gardening mulch.

Refurbished yacht of note to serve as research vessel for marine mammal observer group Gillian Mills Celtic Mist – Ireland’s newest marine research vessel donated by the Haughey family to the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group in 2011 in recognition of its work over the last 21 years – was officially launched last August in Kilrush Boatyard, Co Clare, following an extensive refit. Built in 1974 by Custo in Brittany, the 56ft steel-hulled ketch has a 350 HP diesel Caterpillar engine giving it a maximum speed of 8.5 knots and a cruising speed of 6 knots. The yacht is equipped with acoustic marine monitoring equipment to gather information on distribution, abundance, movements and behaviour of whales, dolphins, porpoises and basking sharks. It has berths for eight people

Cathal Blunnie who oversaw the refit, in conversation with Conor Haughey at the launch and facilities include a chart/ navigation area, large galley and saloon. IWDG intends to use Celtic Mist to train and teach IWDG members how to survey and record whales and dolphins, including how to use acoustic survey techniques. The yacht will also be used for dedicated research projects, professional training and development. The yacht’s maiden voyage

under its new charge set sail on September 3 in search of cetaceans. The team encountered 12 species – from Harbour Porpoise to Blue Whales. The group’s mission is to encourage schools and young people to visit the yacht to learn about cetaceans and the rich marine life in Irish waters and to promote marine conservation.

During Whale Watch Ireland 2012 (August 19), guided whale watches took place at 17 sites throughout the country. Now in its 12th year, the event is one the largest on the Irish wildlife calendar and was attended by c915 whale watchers and visitors. To maximise impact, the event was timed to coincide with Heritage Week and to raise awareness of the 24 species of cetaceans (whales and dolphins) recorded to date in Irish waters. Unfavourable weather prevailed at just over half the sites (53%). The Co Wexford watch at Baginbun Head on the Hook Peninsula had to be cancelled due to weather. The event still produced good results with cetacean sightings at 10 of the16 sites watched (62.5%). This figure rose to 75% when sites with the worst weather were eliminated. At two sites, two species were seen and at Loop Head, Co. Clare, produced three species (bottlenose dolphins, minke whale and large baleen whale species), despite the weather conditions. To promote conservation the public is encouraged to report sightings and strandings to the IWDG. Email enquiries@iwdg.ie or mail to Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Merchants Quay, Kilrush, Co Clare.

inshore ireland October/November 2012 29

coastline news

Expectations running high for podium position at Student Yacht Worlds Gillian Mills

en UCD students will represent Ireland at the 32nd Student Yacht Worlds, taking place in La Rochelle from October 27 – November 3. Irish Sailing Team – UCD was officially launched in September by Irish Olympian, Annalise Murphy. “I’m great friends with these guys; they’re a really strong team and have a really good chance of winning at the World Cup. I wish them best of luck,” she said. The annual event brings together the best student yachting teams from across the globe competing in six days of intense racing on 32ft one-design Grand Surprise boats over a

range of courses, including coastal and night races. UCD qualified to represent Ireland last spring. Weekends are now spent training on board an A35, Adrenelin (Joe McDonnell/Joe Balfe) to whom the team is very grateful. “We extremely appreciative of everyone’s support to date and special mention has to go to our sponsors who have gone above and beyond with their support. While daily bed and board is provided to all competitors for which we’re extremely grateful, we’re hoping to pull in some last minute sponsors to help cover additional expenses. “Competitive racing burns up the calories and it’s going to take a lot of food to feed us!,” Cathal Leigh-Doyle, told Inshore Ireland. “Over the last few weekends,

some world-class coaches are going to put us through our paces to ensure the team is as prepared as possible when the regatta begins. Let the games begin!,” he added. Sponsors: Dubarry, Martin Reilly Motors, CH Marine, Meteo Consult, ASM Marine, Fotosail, McDonald Group Services, North Sails.

Photo: Fotosail

Fundraising raffle For your chance to win one of many prizes (e.g. learn how to kitesurf with Irish National Kitesurfing Champion in Sligo) contact any member of the team BEFORE OCTOBER 20 on www.facebook. com/Irelandsailingteamucd, or www.ucdsailing.wordpress.com. Tickets cost €3 or two for €5.

Annual coastline survey reveals widespread marine litter

he annual Coastwatch survey which finishes on October 15 has undergone a major technological change in 2012, its 25th anniversary in Ireland. What began as a coastal survey printed in the Irish Times for readers to bring to their shore of choice, moved to a standardised 500m survey on photocopied maps carried in local and national media across Europe, asking the public to join in a snapshot audit of their coast. In 2012 the survey transformed into a Google map and Facebook campaign where volunteers could chose their survey site on

Photo: Joe St Leger The team: Aidan McLaverty, Simon Doran, Barry McCartin, Dave Fitzgerald, Cathal Leigh-Doyle, Theodore Murphy, Bella Morehead, Ellen Cahill, Ben Busco

'Hook Bass Angling Festival' Coastwatch surveyors on a training day line, download the forms, and after walking the shore at low tide, input their results for inclusion in the result analyses. “What makes this technological change extra exciting is the fact that results can be used easily by

BASS SHORE FISHING COMPETITION

the surveyor themselves as we will publish them by area and as overlays on official data and designations such as protected sites and water quality information,” remarked Karin Dubsky Coastwatch founder and coordinator.

How to participate Methodically look at a chosen 500m of shore around low tide –- from hinterland to shallow water – noting down findings on the Coastwatch survey form. This is just once-off and takes 20- 45 minutes to complete depending on the type of shore and whether you are looking for animals and plants that are included in the additional questions. A limited number of test kits are also available to check nitrate levels in streams and drains entering your shore. Results are then either posted or keyed in on the Coastwatch website. Photos and videos are also very welcomed. “More surveyors are taking up the biodiversity questions than before and more are noting that their shore is ‘sanding up’ rather than eroding. Others noted changes in shore height with consequences on shore life whereby seaweeds and rock pool life may be smothered for a few weeks then re-exposed to look almost naked,” remarked Dubsky added. She noted that drink-container litter was more concentrated with “ridiculously high” litter black spot areas; however plastic bag count remains below one bag per survey site, having dropped rapidly since the plastic bag tax was introduced. “Marine litter, however, especially net ends, is widespread. The worst shore was a quarry on the River Foyle which is still operating despite being served a Prohibitory Notice under the Foreshore Act, 1999. “This wrecked kilometre of river bank and bed was not included in previous Coastwatch surveys as it is in the fresh water tidal stretch of the Natura 2000 site. This is being followed up as a priority by Coastwatch coordination,” she confirmed. Results, highlights and presentations linking results to marine policy and law will be unveiled in the European Commission offices, Dublin, on Nov 30.

Further information from info@coastwatch.org

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30 inshore ireland October/November 2012

outside ireland

Wear the fox hat… Tom Lawlor

he perfect way to spend a summer is to idle on a boat along the Galician coast, especially in the company of kindred spirits. I was invited to join a delivery crew to sail the ketch Brisa Mar from Spain to its home port of Cork. I joined Donal O’Boyle and Dick Lincoln in Dublin airport for the flight to Santiago. Donal and I are old shipmates and were attired like pilgrims; Dick who has sailed to every island on the west coast of Ireland was more David Bowie. We joined the boat in Portosin where Tommy and Mikey Dwyer welcomed us on board. We would spend the next week drifting from village to village before beginning the homeward leg to Cork. Mikey showed all the symptoms of a man who was coming to the end of a month’s holiday afloat: beard, deep tan and a gait that comes from strolling from boat to bodega to bunk with a following of disciples that would join us for some day sailing. Tommy appreciated the arrival of new shipmates. A fresh audience for his songs and stories. Mussel manoeuvres We spent a week day-sailing towards the ‘end of the world’– Cape Finisterre on the northwest shoulder. The approaches to many Spanish ports required some dexterity on the helm as we steered a course between the numerous mussel rafts that make these waters the mussel capital of the world and a challenge to navigate. Evenings were spent ashore enjoying the coastal communities. Mikey’s day was incomplete unless he began his dinner with a starter of pigs’ ears – a sure sign he was going native. We knew it was time to return him to the land of the crubeen. Dick visited every church while Tommy and Donal researched the bars to find one that would welcome Tommy’s anthem, Paddy McGinty’s Goat, performed with signings for the deaf. Leaving Finisterre astern at 05:00hrs to ensure we cleared the shipping separation lanes off the north-west coast we entered the Bay of Biscay and set a course for Cork. Triple layered sky We had three days warning of the advancing storm. Dick filled a black binliner with assorted sandwiches and cooked a chicken stew – and the oil lamps were emptied and stowed. We would operate two-man watches: 1 hr on:2 hrs off, but constantly on standby. The Dwyer brothers sensed the arrival of

Mikey Dwyer looks out for a good anchorage

The author steering a good course

The crew (l to r): Mikey, Dick, Donal, Tommy alongside in Crosshaven the storm and in a fifteen minute window took down sails, readied the boat for the ensuing turmoil, got out the life jackets and harnesses which everyone wore for the duration. When the storm arrived the canopy of the sky was layered into three levels. The highest was bright blue, then white and the lowest was dark grey. The white and grey moving in opposite directions. On the horizon grey rain clouds fell to sea level. The sea lifted, tumbled and fell around us. During the daylight a swallow used our guardrail to rest.

seas drove us towards Greenland. Men often share stories and reminiscences when on a nightwatch. Mikey recalled to me a story his father Charlie told, of a sailor who experienced a frightful storm at sea and promised his God that if he survived he would never get on a boat again. Some days later they reached a safe harbour. He took an oar from the boat and began to walk inland. When he found a community who did not know what an oar was, he settled down and lived there.

Galeforce winds At night, for a moment, the moon split the black curtain and peeked into the storm. The dim lights on the instrument panel showed over 40 knots of wind. Below deck the off-duty watch used kit bags and spare sails to jam themselves into small spaces and miraculously slept. Our helmsmen had different styles of keeping on course. Tommy’s grip on the helm was certain and strong while Mikey stood off centre and had a more light handed touch. But Dick was Ben Hur. Standing firm on the deck, feet apart, square on to the wheel with arms outstreched he drove us homeward. But sometimes the storm and heavy

Land fall Our arrival day was strong and sparkling. Under full sail the ketch shouldered the seas aside and the sun dried all the wet gear on the deck. Roche’s Point seemed to hide below the horizon. Entering the approaches to Cork evoked many memories for me. As we passed Fort Camden I recalled the great comrades and carefree days I enjoyed there with the Slua Muiri and especially the late Noel Cullen. We landed at Crosshaven’s town pier and the skipper filled glasses of whiskey to toast a good crew and a good voyage. The five amigos ambled the short journey to Cronin’s pub for dinner and cheer.

Donal O’Boyle in the cockpit

Tommy Dwyer adjusting the mizzen sail I detoured to light a penny candle and later joined the crew in the select lounge. I arrived in time to hear Tommy finish his joke: ‘Wear the fox hat.’ All the company collapsed in laughter. Later I enjoyed a dead man’s sleep

in a bed that never moved. Next day on my train journey home to Dublin I noticed a man in a field shouldering a golf club. He reminded me of a man with an oar.

inshore ireland October/November 2012 31

outside ireland

Making a meal out of Peru’s fisheries: a little less feed, a bit more food Brian O’Riordan, ICSF

he road to hell is paved with good intentions, it is said, and nowhere more so than in Peru. Peru is endowed with the world’s richest fishery resources; however between 90% -95% of the catch is destined for feeding animals not humans. Peru has classified its fishery into two main sectors: providing fish for indirect human consumption (fishmeal and fishoil) and fish for direct human consumption. The former comprises larger-scale industrial fishing vessels and the latter, artisanal and smallscale vessels.

Peru’s fishery is full of contradictions. In 2006 the World Bank commissioned an evaluation report on the country’s marine fisheries sector, describing the Peruvian industrial fishery for anchoveta as: ‘over-capacity in the fleet and processing sectors; displaying low efficiency; causing significant losses in rent and high environmental and social costs for the Peruvian State; and generating huge foreign exchange earnings that benefit a minimal fraction of the industry’. Yet in 2008, despite having a fleet four-five times the capacity needed to catch the resources, scientists at the University of British Colombia ranked Peru’s fishery as the most sustainable in the World. The MSC and others have even considered certifying the fishery as sustainable.

Cabinet reshuffles

Managing Peru’s fishery is fraught with problems. The last twelve months has seen the appointment of no less than five fisheries ministers. In May 2012 when Patricia Majluf – a marine conservationist of world renown – resigned as Fisheries Vice-minister, she expressed her ‘complete dissatisfaction with the way that fisheries were being managed’. She also pointed out recently that ‘Peru suffers from significant child malnutrition. Given such a problem it seems paradoxical that despite having such a highly nutritious and much sought after species like the anchoveta, we do not eat it.’ The problem, as outlined by Dr Majluf is not new. In fact, since at least 1975 many serious attempts have been made to channel the world’s largest fishery into food for human consumption.

Mismanagement

The fleet of smaller scale vessels catch around 450,000 tonnes of fish providing earnings of around $100m annually which are being illegally processed into fishmeal

Artisanal purse seiner: traditionally the 0–5 mile zone was reserved for artisanal fishing

Due to enormous technical and logistical problems and the highly perishable nature of the Peruvian anchovy, these attempts however have sadly not met with much success. Indeed, as this article shows, recent attempts have backfired. Well-intentioned regulations and incentives have in fact led to more intensive extraction of this huge but highly fragile resource threatening its sustainability, whilst encouraging a boom in illegal, unregulated fishmeal plants. Twenty years ago, the Peruvian authorities

established the coastal zone from 0–5 miles for the exclusive use of artisanal fisheries. The regulation considered that this zone ‘was an area of upwelling and the spawning area of the main fishery resources used for direct human consumption, and therefore direct measures are needed to ensure its protection.’ Fishing activities for direct/ indirect human consumption with purse seines and other methods, along with gear and fishing devices that impact on the marine environment was banned in this zone. The law was passed both as a conservation measure and to protect artisanal fisheries. Efforts to promote anchoveta both as a staple and gourmet food for human consumption, mainly as canned products, have met with some success. Peruvians have increased their consumption from ~10,000 tonnes in 2006 to ~190,000 tonnes in 2012. This encouraged the Peruvians to introduce new rules in 2010 to enable artisanal fishing vessels (with 30 tonne capacity holds) targeting anchovy for human consumption to insulate their holds and to boost quantities of suitable quality for canning. The rules however were not properly enforced (the insulated holds were not properly inspected) and the fishery was not properly managed. Added to this was the absence of a surveillance system or control of vessel activities. Likewise, the authorities had no capacity to intervene in the establishment

of illegal fishmeal plants financing these vessels.

Black market domination

This caused a series of distortions with the consequence that 80% of their catch, which should have been destined for direct human consumption, is now illegally diverted to fishmeal production on the black market, and into establishments set up to use waste residues and discards produced by the canning industry. Around 450,000 tonnes of fish providing annual earnings of ~$100m is now being illegally processed into fishmeal, prompting the Peruvian authorities to redefine artisanal fisheries into two broad categories: ‘Small-scale’ fishing vessels (targeting anchovy mainly for human consumption), and ‘artisanal vessels’ (targeting other species for direct human consumption).’ The same regulation establishes that the 0 –5 mile zone is reserved for artisanal vessels – up to 10 metres in length with holds of less than 10 cu metres and which haul gear manually, i.e. vessels that don’t use purse seines or trawls. The 5–10 mile zone is now reserved for ‘smaller-scale’ vessels – up to 15 metres with holds of up to 30 cu metres using mechanically-hauled gears. This new regulation is an integral part of an overall sectoral development strategy based upon three basic pillars: sustainable resource use, social inclusion and combating corruption.

Coastal artisanal gill netters: traditionally Peru’s artisanal fishery has provided fish for direct human consumption Photos Juan Carlos Sueiro

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