Inshore Ireland Vol 3 nr 4 November 2007 by Inshore Ireland Publishing

Bimonthly

incorporating

News from the coast and inland waterways

Aquaculture Ireland

Fish discards

Interview

80% of juveniles are dumped Page 2

Fishermen’s banker talks to Inshore Ireland Pages 8 & 9

World Seafood Congress 2007 Full report Page 36-39

November 2007 Vol 3 Issue 5

Inshore fisheries . . . . . . Freshwater Angling . . . . Aquaculture News . . . . Marine R&D/Shipping . .

.... .... .... ....

.... .... ... ...

14-15 20-21 22-27 34-35

Political action required to avert global health catastrophe A leading authority on how dietary Omega-3 affects the developing human brain has called for global seafood production to be stepped up significantly to offset the catastrophic impact that diets low in essential fatty acids will have on the health of future generations, reports Gery Flynn. Professor Michael Crawford, founder of the Institute of Brain Chemistry and Human Nutrition at the London Metropolitan University said that the world was now facing a ‘‘serious health crisis’’ as seen by a dramatic rise in food-related disorders linked specifically to insufficient essential fatty acids in the diet. ‘‘If brain disorders continue to escalate in this century the way that heart disease did in the last one, then we are looking at a really unthinkable situation in the children that are yet to be born,’’ Professor Crawford declared in a keynote address to delegates at the World Seafood Congress in Dublin. ‘‘People today talk about obesity as a serious health problem, but this is a trivial item compared with the threat of the rise in brain disorders. The audit for the burden of ill health throughout Europe shows that brain disorders have now overtaken all other burdens of ill health at a cost of €386bn at 2004 prices, and it’s going to get worse.’’

Consequences Crawford claims that as far back as 1972, he and other scientists working in the area of nutrition and human brain development warned governments that unless attention was given to the issue of dietary

Long road to Clonakilty to achieve full decentralisation

THE GREAT DEBATE Dr Pat Wall, Dr Alex Richardson, Paula Mee and Prof Michael Crawford debate the role of Omega-3 as part of a healthy diet. Full report of the World Seafood Congress 2007, Croke Park pages 36 to 39.

fats, the incidence of brain disorders would ‘‘spiral out of control’’ within a generation. ‘‘And here we are, thirty years later, faced with a serious crisis that we actually predicted. It’s the children of tomorrow whose future health and activities are at stake, and something must be done about it now,’’ he said.

As to what caused this crisis to develop, Crawford claims that it is the direct result of a fundamental error by scientists in the last century who saw protein — and not the essential fatty acids — as the nutritional driver responsible for placing Homo sapiens at the top of the evolutionary tree. ‘‘I believe that the concept of

Strength in Unity for all Aquaculture Producers Join to-day - call 01-4508755 or visit our web site www.ifa.ie

protein and body growth in the last century was false and misleading in quite a serious way,’’ Crawford declared. ‘‘The brain is made of fat, and just in the same way that essential amino acids are used to build protein, you also need essential fatty acids of the Omega-6 and Omega-3 variety to build the fats used in the

brain. The priority is the brain, and this is vested in the mother. It’s the mother that creates the brain inside her womb.’’

Marine food chain He added that the expansion of the human brain requires a plentiful source of pre-formed * To page 2

MINISTER for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Mary Coughlan TD has laid the foundation stone for the €20m complex for the Department and BIM in Clonakilty. The three-acre site at Clogheen, which is due for completion in March 2009 and will accommodate 180 civil and public servants and a new Seafood Development Centre, is set to result in a €9m payroll injection into the local economy. ‘‘Decentralisation of the fisheries and aquaculture divisions of the Department has gone very well. The available civil service posts were oversubscribed on a voluntary basis and 80 civil servants are now working in interim offices in the town. A further 28 public servants are now working in the new Sea Fisheries Protection Authority in the town,’’ Minister Coughlan said. She added that following discussions between the Department of Finance and the unions representing State Agency employees to resolve outstanding issues, she expected to see movement on the decentralisation of BIM ‘‘ahead of the March 2009 completion date’’. At the time of going to press, Inshore Ireland understands that no BIM employee has expressed an interest in relocating to Clonakilty.

Home of The Irish Salmon Growers’ Association The Irish Trout Producers’ Group & The Irish Shellfish Association

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

NEWS

LEFT: Sea Fishery Advisory Group (Patsy Peril Johnny Woodlock and John Daly) outside Dáil Éireann with a sample of discarded fish. Photo: Brendan Price, Irish Seal Sanctuary ABOVE: Sea Fishery Advisory Group with a display of various species of juvenile fish (haddock, cod, herring, whiting, three species of sole, plaice, fluke, dogfish, gurnards, monkfish and john dory. All discarded dead before they can reproduce. Photo: J Woodlock

Fishery advisory group claims race to the bottom is in freefall Report by Gillian Mills THE level of fish being discarded and bycatch being dumped in the Irish Sea is unacceptable and is not being addressed, according to the sea fisheries advisory group of the Irish Sea Sanctuary who displayed specimens of a typical day’s trawling at the gates of Dáil Éireann.

The exercise involved an eighteen-fathom net that was trawled three times and for three hours per trawl, roughly ten miles offshore between Skerries and Howth. During the 14 hours, six boxes of whole prawns and 13 stone of tails were landed and over two tonnes of dead juvenile fish were discarded. ‘‘We were one of seventeen trawlers fishing the same area, along with five twin-riggers

pulling two nets between thirty and fifty fathoms wide at twice the speed we were trawling. We used a TCM square mesh panel but still caught this amount of juvenile fish,’’ Johnny Woodlock told Inshore Ireland.

Trawler ban Woodlock believes the only way to significantly reduce discards is to get the trawlers out of the spawning and nursery grounds altogether.

‘‘Only selective fishing methods should be allowed, otherwise juvenile fish will continue to die before they can reproduce, or reach a commercial size’’ he said. And he added that fishermen trying to fish in a sustainable manner against labyrinthine legislation and regulation favouring corporations and syndicates of larger owners and processors were ‘‘forced to compete with pirates and poa-

chers from home and abroad. They are trapped in this race to the bottom and nobody in government is prepared to intervene. ‘‘The real fishermen on the decks want a future in fishing and not short-term profit. The problem is that now most ‘fishermen’ are employees. Smaller sustainable fisheries are well capable of providing a livelihood for fishermen. The hand-line mackerel fish-

ery is one example.’’ He added that the ‘‘men in suits’’ were happy to wait for discard assessments and trials to be conducted before taking action ‘‘but by then it could be too late. ‘‘We want the various ministers to take action now. In Canada they made the mistake of waiting and lost the Grand Banks cod fishery. We hope true fishermen will support this call,’’ he said.

Brussels accepts failure in current stock conservation measures By Gillian Mills EU Commission officials from DG Fish and Maritime Affairs have admitted that current measures to protect various fish stocks have failed, prompting a thorough review of the legislation. Ernesto Penas-Lado and François Theret were speaking at a recent international workshop on stock sustainability organised by the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation. The officials added it was ‘‘essential’’ to clarify and simplify the regulations, to reflect the new era of environmental awareness, and that all stakeholders should be involved in both drafting and implementation of such control measures:

From page 1

DHA, and that the richest source of DHA was the marine food chain as the savanna environment offered very little of it. This, according to Crawford, is the reason why Homo sapiens had to have evolved close to a marine environment and not on the savannas as once believed. Crawford believes that recent fossil evidence indicates that ‘‘the lacustrine and marine food chain’’ was being extensively exploited at the time cerebral expansion took place, and suggests the alternative that the transition from the archaic to modern humans took place at the land/water interface. And he sees this as the key reason why humankind must now ‘‘return to the marine environment’’ in order to be able to find the required amount of Omega-3 in its diet. This, he said, was essential because modern agriculture, hunting and gathering will not be able to supply the required amount.

Dark Ages ‘‘This hunting and gathering we do today in the sea is no use because it’s basically just a ten-

‘‘It is the view of the Commission that TCMs can improve selectivity; reduce discards; protect sensitive habitats and species; protect juveniles and spawners; however TCMs cannot replace catch and effort limitations or bring about stock recovery on their own,’’ Ernesto Penas Lado added. Commenting on the workshop, Sean O’Donoghue, KFO chief executive said the event highlighted the value of taking an ‘‘unusual and bottom-up approach’’ to the very important subjects of TCMs: ‘‘It was a platform to address key conservation issues such as discards and minimum sustainable yield. Progress is vital in the area of sustainable fisheries,

thousand-year-old technology with better tools. We are in the Dark Ages as far as the use of the oceans is concerned,’’ he declared. ‘‘It worked for a while because we believed that it was plentiful as a food resource. We have suddenly woken up however to the fact that it’s not quite as plentiful as we thought.’’ ‘‘The next step forward has to be the ‘agriculturising’ of the oceans and to make use of the most incredible food resource on the planet. It is untenable to think that with what little arable land there is in the world we can hope to feed growing world populations.’’ Concluding his remarks, Professor Crawford praised the Irish government’s commitment to develop the seafood sector in the National Development Plan 2007-2013. And he added he was impressed by Minister Browne’s call for ‘‘an in-depth consultation with all the stakeholders’’ that would give rise to a long-term and visionary seafood development plan. ‘‘I applaud this kind of spirit by a government minister responsible for seafood, and I wish you well in promoting such ideas,’’ he concluded.

and I anticipate an improved atmosphere for all parties, resulting in an effective and userfriendly TCMs regulation.’’ ‘‘Fishery managers must commit to providing real and tangible incentives to encourage responsible fishing and, in return, fishermen must respond and cooperate in the uptake of new measures,’’ Sean O’Donoghue added. The ‘Technical Conservation Measure’ workshop was also addressed by fishery scientists, gear technologists, fishery managers and fishermen drawn from the North Eastern Atlantic and North Sea fishing industry. Industry representatives welcomed the Commission’s contributions but pointed out that

Photo: G Mills

whilst simplification and clarification was very desirable, it was easier said than done and that the devil would be in the detail, which could only be

achieved through improved dialogue between all parties. Dr Daniel Priour, IFREMER France said it was not enough to improve the design of gear, it

The proposals * Clear and simple definitions — easier understood and easier enforced * Conservation of regulated species — clearly specified fishing gear, minimum sizes and closed areas * Protection of the marine environment — closed areas and more selective fishing gear * Reduce discards — an area where it is hoped the stakeholders will play a major role, involving time and area closures and elimination of such practices as ‘ghost fishing’ * Evaluation of the effectiveness of such TCMs and fasttracking the decision-making process where the application of TCMs needs to be altered.

must also be shown to be effective. ‘‘The ability to predict the effectiveness of fishing gear is vitally important to both fishermen and scientists,’’ he said. In summary, Sean O’Donoghue said that future research needed to be more closely tailored to specific problems and that the findings must be made available to all stakeholders. ‘‘Events such as this workshop, production of userfriendly technical leaflets to explain research projects and promotion by the trade media, Regional Advisory Councils (RACs) and fishing organisations will go a long way to address this problem, he said.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

NEWS

Commission’s integrated maritime policy for EU By Gillian Mills THE European Commission has adopted a communication setting out its vision for an Integrated Maritime Policy for

the EU, and has tabled an action plan to deliver the work programme. Commenting on the proposal, Commission President José Manuel Barroso said he was

Action plan * A European maritime transport space without barriers * A European strategy for marine research * A national integrated maritime policies to be developed by Member States * An integrated network for maritime surveillance * A roadmap towards maritime spatial planning by Member States

* Elimination of pirate fishing and destructive high seas bottom trawling * Promotion of a European network of maritime clusters * A review of EU labour law exemptions for the shipping and fishing sectors * A European Marine Observation and Data Network * A strategy to mitigate the effects of climate change on coastal regions.

‘‘convinced that a great part of our future lies in the untapped potential of the oceans’’ and that the proposal was designed to generate growth, jobs and sustainability. He emphasised that scientific discoveries, technology developments, globalisation, climate change and maritime pollution were rapidly altering Europe’s relationship with the sea and oceans and that such a policy would enable the Union to meet these challenges. Until now, the different activities and policies relating to the seas have been managed on largely sectoral lines.

EC statement According to a Commission statement: ‘an integrated maritime policy will change the way policy is formulated and decisions taken in the maritime sectors, in full respect of the

principle of subsidiarity. It will enable the relevant authorities to analyse interactions between the various sectors and policy areas concerned and to take them into account at every level so as to develop common tools to exploit synergies and avoid conflicts.‘The new policy will build on Europe’s strengths in marine research, technology and innovation. It will be anchored in the Lisbon agenda for more and better jobs and growth, and in the EU’s overarching commitment to ensuring that economic development does not come at the price of environmental sustainability.’ Delivery of the action plan has already begun with Commissioner Spidla presenting a review of labour law exemptions in the maritime sectors and Commissioner Piebalgs publishing a report on the inter-linkages between the EU

energy policy and the new integrated maritime policy. ‘An integrated maritime policy will only succeed with the continued engagement and support of all the actors and stakeholders concerned. The

Commission will continue to work with stakeholders and authorities at European, national and regional levels in order to translate its vision into reality,’ the statement said.

Moves to close illegal fishing and end destructive practices THE European Commission has outlined its proposals to close the market for illegally caught fish in the EU and end destructive fishing practices. The new regulation on illegally caught fish would mean that fish products would only be allowed access to the EU market if they have been certified as legal by the flag state (the country where the vessel that caught them is registered) or by the country exporting the products. A European black list would also be drawn up, to include

vessels that fish illegally and countries that turn a ‘blind eye’ to these activities. Sanctions against illegal fishing in EU waters and against EU operators fishing illegally anywhere in the world are also proposed. ‘‘There must be zero tolerance for pirate fishing which rewards only those who steal fish resources. To the rest of the world, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing only brings grief through overfishing, habitats destruction and unfair competition. The EU

needs to lead by example,’’ commented the European Commissioner for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, Joe Borg, commented,

Protecting the ecosystem The Commission has also drafted a regulation to protect vulnerable deep sea ecosystems from destructive fishing practices and also proposes a ban in the use of harmful bottom gear from the high sea areas. Last December the UN

called on its member states to take action both individually and through the Regional Fisheries Management Organisations to protect the biodiversity of the deep seas. The draft regulation contains measures for the implementation of these UN recommendations. For high sea areas not yet covered by RFMOs, the proposal will mean that fishermen will be required to get a fishing permit to operate in a defined area before they can begin fishing. These permits will only be

granted by the Member State concerned if it is certain that the planned fishing activities will not have a significant adverse impact on fragile marine habitats. In addition, fishing at depths of more than 1,000 metres would also be prohibited to EU vessels. Under this proposal, if a vessel encounters a vulnerable ecosystem in the course of its operations it must immediately stop fishing and move on. The precise location and nature of the site should then be reported to the relevant authorities.

Once there is reliable scientific data pointing to the existence of vulnerable marine habitats, Member States will be required to implement a closure and to pass this information onto the European Commission, which will then take steps to implement a total area closure. Vessels will be obliged to carry scientific observers, and their catches and a record of their compliance with the provisions of the regulation will be sent to the European Commission every six months.

Minister presses commissioner to deliver electronic reporting system OUTLINING her vision for the marine sector in Ireland to the EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, marine minister Mary Coughlan TD, urged Joe Borg to deliver the new rules for the electronic reporting system for fish catches, ‘‘without further delay’’. She also asked for robust new rules that give real-time access to coastal states such as Ireland to logbook data of all fishing vessels operating in its waters. ‘‘The new electronic logbook offers real opportunities for our Navy to monitor and control fishing activity in our waters. I pressed Commissioner Borg to have these rules introduced without further delay and to ensure that they deliver realtime access to data so that our industry can be confident that there is equality of treatment at EU level’’. The principles were agreed last November by Council; commencement of the new system is dependent upon the

introduction of new rules currently under consideration. The Minister also emphasised the potential development of the marine sector in a commercial but sustainable way, based on research, innovation and the government’s integrated development plan for the Seafood Sector 2007-2013. And she asked Commissioner Borg to fast-track Commission state-aid approval for Ireland’s planned buy-out scheme to achieve a balance between the fishing fleet and fish resources: ‘‘I am committed to the introduction without delay of a buy-out scheme for fishing vessels. ‘‘We need to offer some fishermen the opportunity to leave fishing and give them appropriate compensation. I am anxious to launch this scheme in the near future and need the European Commission to give its approval, she said. The Government set aside €15 million in 2007 for this voluntary scheme.

Mary Coughlan TD, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food outlining her vision for the marine sector to EU Commissioner Joe Borg.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

NEWS

Conservation and long-term management central to RAC annual review AT the Annual General Assembly of the North Western Waters Regional Advisory Council (NWWRAC), which was held on the fringes of the World Seafood Congress in Dublin last month, members reviewed developments across a range of issues including cod recovery, long-term management of cod and hake, technical conservation measures (TCMs), fish discards, management of deepwater gillnet fisheries, the Habitats Directive and the TACs/quotas for 2007. For the year ahead, the mem-

bership will continue to work in these areas and also proposes improvement in fisheries-based data advice along with longterm management and maximum sustainable yield (MSY) and to advise on special areas of conservation (SACs) and marine protected aeas (MPAs) Ă? Marine Natura 2000 sites.

Background

The NWWRAC is a representative body comprised of representatives from Spain, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Britain and Ireland. It was estab-

lished in 2005 as part of the European Commission's 2002 reform of the Common Fisheries Policy. The membership and observers at NWWRAC meetings includes representatives from fish producer organisations, environmental conservationists, marine science experts, key government representatives and fishermen.

Further details are available from their website at www.nwwrac.org or the secretariat in BIM head office at 01-2144100.

Boat decommissioning heads up Coughlan visit to southwest TRANSFER of the Department of Fisheries from Communications Marine and Natural Resources to the Department of Agriculture is ``an important milestone that can herald a new beginning in reforming and modernising the Irish fishing industry,'' said Gerard O'Flynn, CEO of the Irish South & West Fishermen's Organisation, following a meeting with the fisheries minister Mary Coughlan TD. Top of the agenda was fishing fleet decommissioning, which the organisation said could not be announced

until such a time as there is ``complete clarity on the net payments participants can expect. Many applicants have significant borrowings and are being asked to give up a life-long vocation. It is essential that there is complete clarity on what is on offer and what deductions in the form of taxation or other reductions will apply,'' O'Flynn stressed. Other issues raised included reform of quota management, introduction of administrative sanctions for minor fisheries offences and control and enforcement issues.

``Current legislation that relies on criminal law to address the most minor of offences is gratuitously unfair and even conflicts with EU policy that continuously recommends the introduction of administrative sanctions as a preferred enforcement measure,'' O'Flynn added. He added he was ``confident'' Minister Coughlan was ``fully aware'' of the key issues affecting the fishing sector and was committed to their resolution and would work closely with the industry to build a sustainable and profitable fishing industry.

INSHORE IRELAND

November 2007

COMMENT

mood, behaviour or learning - from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia and autism to dementia, impulsivity and aggression. It's the old folk wisdom: fish really is good for the brain. Across Europe, rising costs of antisocial behaviour, depression and other mental health problems are at an all-time high. The EU estimated the annual burden at 360 billion in 2006. And that's just the financial costs Ð because the human costs are of course incalculable. One leading scientist actually warned governments back in the 1970s Ð when heart disease rates were causing concern - that unless something was done to improve the quality of the fats in our diets, `brain disorders' would be next. Policymakers still don't seem to be listening, but isn't it time we started getting the fats right?

Getting enough omega-6 is usually no problem: the most important are in meat, dairy products and eggs, others in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and grains. But 9 out of 10 people don't get enough of the key omega-3, EPA and DHA. Fish and seafood are the main natural sources, although we can make very limited amounts from simpler omega-3 found in some nuts, seeds and green vegetables. We need EPA and DHA for a healthy heart and circulation (they help heart rhythm and blood flow), for immune system balance (they are anti-inflammatory), and for every cell signalling system in our bodies and brains. Particularly our brains, because 60% of the brain's dry mass is fat. Omega-3 deficiencies have long been known to contribute to physical health problems like heart disease and arthritis. Research now shows they can contribute to depression and many other disorders of

sings, `ready meals' and takeaways) are worse. Hydrogenation allowed the food industry to use cheap solidified vegetable oils instead of expensive animal fats. It produces `plastic fats' with a long-shelf life, great texture and `mouth feel', but little or no nutritional value. Worse, hydrogenation can warp the `polyunsaturates' in those vegetable oils into dangerous, twisted fats called `trans fats', which have no nutritional benefits and many health risks. We've been getting the fats very wrong, but the authorities haven't bothered to tell us. In fact, the type of fat we eat is more important than the quantity Ð and it's actually the fats we're NOT eating that matter most of all: namely, the special omega-3 fats in fish and seafood. They are `good fats'. Both omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturates are absolutely essential, but we must get them from our diets.

IN Ireland - as in most modern developed countries - bad diets are damaging not just our physical health, but our brains and behaviour. The evidence is now undeniable: food can fundamentally affect our mental health and performance as well as increase our risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and cancer. But the right health messages are still not getting through. Most people think they should be eating less fat. Witness our obsession with `low fat' foods (often packed with sugar, salt and additives). They've made the food and diet industries richer, but have done little for our waistlines or wellbeing. Similarly, many people still think margarine is healthier than butter. Don't the saturated fats from butter, cream, cheese and meat clog up our arteries? Well, in excess, yes. But the hydrogenated vegetable oils in most margarines (and almost all commercially processed foods - like pastries, cakes, biscuits, crisps, sauces, soups, salad dres-

tnemmoC

Feeding brains Ð let's get the facts right

Ð Dr Alex Richardson

`Fictional' journalism was a Accreditation for organic true and fact-based article fish products needed for quality control DEAR

Editor,

I feel compelled to write to you after

reading

letter

from

Noel

Carr,

article

the

latest

FISSTA PRO,

which

wrote

FISSTA

titled

news-

remain

vigilant for salmon stocks. In it he claims that an article that I wrote for the Donegal on

Sunday was false and that no salmon anglers are selling their catch. He

made

firstly

scathing

the

NSC

attack

chairman,

Joey Murrin and then on myself. The article stated: `The NSC

chairman, who is former CEO of

the

Killybegs

Fishermen's

Organisation, has consistently attacked anglers to placate the commercial fishermen whom he had represented until his retirement

three

Minister

years

will

ago.

Some

eventually

have

to confront his strong view that he alone has the authority to protect the livelihoods of netsmen against the development of angling

any

recreational

industry if we are to make any progress. `His latest and most disgra-

ceful claim to date is that many rod-caught fish were being sold to hotels and restaurants. His colleagues

the

media

re-

ported this lie and criminal acts in the national and provincial papers.' It

who

continues:

the

`John Rafferty

author

`Sea

Angling in Ireland' could find that anglers may pass on buying this book, if they read the

Inshore Ireland bimonthly

feature he penned in the Done-

Fisheries Board: `We have had

gal

a few reports on the sale of rod

``Several

caught salmon which we have

Democrat

August

which

substantial

Sunday

ran

but

unofficial

re-

ports have been made about

these anglers are in the minor-

them

rently

ity.

ment for

aquaculture products

Christmas sales of smoked sal-

regulation

labelled

for

suggest

cash. that

Reports

this

also

not

01-2859111/087-2611597

wonder if your readers are that, no

unlike

all

enforceable

other

require-

Heading

towards

the

peak

tional

very

the

unsatisfactory.

State

this level

not

have

omission until

the

amendment

adnaEU

comes

The closure of the commer-

mon, where growth in organic

into effect in 2009? Unlike in

cial driftnet fishery alone will

area but one that is occurring

approved by a certifying body?

products has been considerable,

agriculture, there are no 5,000

not stop the salmon's demise.

This means that the consumer

consumers

the

fines or prison terms for those

cannot be sure that what they

product labels for an approved

selling uncertified `organic' la-

buy is produced organically.

certification

belled seafood products. A gen-

`organic'

with greater frequency nation-

Salmon anglers like the com-

wide.'' Such fictional journal-

mercial fishermen will have to

ism continues to be published

make some immense sacrifices

on the quotes of such unsub-

if the salmon are to return to

stantiated claims from the so

potential losers in this situation.

previous levels and the licence

called chairman of the National

purchased

Salmon Commission, Joey Murrin.' For

Carr

claim

that

what I wrote is fictional journalism

wrote

unjustifiable. is

true

and

What

factually

There

seem

lot

ling regulations to ensure that

nically approved farm, the pro-

Timoleague, Co Cork

they get what they pay for, may

cessor or smoker must also be

to fish for the salmon, they do

approved

* PS: Before you buy any rare,

not

controls on rogue traders selling

`organic'. A legal omission in

so-called `organic' fish products

the European Regulations 2029/

that are not certified.

91 means that until 1 January

own

the

anglers

salmon

the

fishery. This

I'm

glad

say

still

belongs to the people of Ireland.

omitted from his literary assault

Inshore Ireland

is that I also said in my piece in

(jrafferty@eircom.net),

the Donegal on Sunday that it is

unaware

that

there

are

Certified producers (aquacul-

Burtonport, Co Donegal

farmers

and

processors)

ganic accreditation and expect a correspondingly

higher

value

lots

of fish, just to have themselves the

unlawful

angler/poacher, who it must be said are in the minority. While writing my story for the Donegal on Sunday, I received a reply to an email I sent regarding the sale of rod-caught salmon from Josie Mahon, an inspector

Eastern

Regional

Publication dates for 2008: the Irish Times,

The publishers do not accept responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors and advertisers. While every care is taken to ensure accuracy of information contained in Inshore Ireland, we do not accept responsibility for any errors, or matters arising from same.

" " "

February 28th June 26th October 30th

order

actual

call

2009, it will not be possible for the authorities to pursue those selling uncertified products. As

consumer

confidence

vital to the future success of the including aquaculture products

their dream of catching the king with

the

lose confidence in the genuine-

their hard earned cash pursuing

associated

while

organic

anglers

spend

Here,

for their products. If the public

entirely unfair to the thousands salmon

uine case of caveat emptor!

Organic Trust and IOFGA.

Carr only gives them the right

Ð John Rafferty, contributor to

year

the

Ð Dr Harriet Emerson,

What Mr Carr conveniently

each

Flaxpond House, Inchybridge,

have invested in achieving or-

legitimate

such

must have come from an orga-

rently going on at some rivers.

who

body

check

Consumers, relying on label-

ture

should

fish

based account of what is cur-

mills@inshore-ireland.com

cole@inshore-ireland.com

localised problem to any one

24 - 28 Tara Street, Dublin 2

Roger Cole

dressed

ing trade who is willing to buy

Printed by

Advertising manager

can command.

organic products, there is cur-

Gillian Mills

Irish Farmers Journal

Could

has been caught by an angler;

Editor

Production & imaging

sidered

effects on the prices the sector

or establishments in the cater-

bell, Dublin 12

091-844822/085-7475797

Ð this situation must be con-

ling, this may have long-term

aware

Field, Irish Farm Centre, Blue-

flynn@inshore-ireland.com

ness of `organic' seafood label-

you can buy wild salmon that

Farmers Journal and the Irish

Gery Flynn

Editor

caught salmon to any persons

Agricultural

Features editor

DEAR

The sad fact of the matter is

Trust, publishers of the Irish

01-2354804/087-2902045

lowed up.'

salmon anglers selling their rod

is published

the

been alerted to and duly fol-

" April 24th th " August 28 th " December 18

To advertise in Inshore Ireland contact Roger Cole Email: cole@inshore-ireland.com Tel: (01) 285 9111 or 284 1544

sector

Ireland

pricey

`wild'

smoked

salmon

this Christmas, if it doesn't state it's Atlantic salmon, beware of `FAO Code area 67' as that's the Pacific and quite a different salmon! At Dublin Airport recently, only those in the know would

have

been

aware

the

`wild smoked salmon' on sale was from the Pacific.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

NEWS

‘Crabs toes’ no longer sustainable Report by John Rafferty ANYONE living along or visiting the coast will remember from childhood, the pleasures and taste of eating what we call ‘crabs toes’ — a delicacy that once tasted will leave you addicted for life. At present there is a thriving crab claw industry in Irish and British waters as the demand and price soars to an all-time high, but for how much longer? The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) in Britain has called for the deliberate removal of live crab claws to be banned. They have made this call on the basis that whilst crabs can regenerate their limbs and the fishery industry therefore considers the practice sustainable, de-clawing is likely to cause the crabs to starve to death, and that little protection was being given to the marine environment. Calum Duncan, a spokesman for MCS, said that although removing claws was legal it was both cruel and unsustainable. ‘‘Since claws can be regenerated some view the practice of claw removal as sustainable; however, only large crabs are fished for their claws and these grow slowly and moult infrequently, so inevitably these crabs starve before their claws can regenerate. We would therefore like to see the practice of landing crab claws only outlawed.’

A recent study by Prof Robert Elwood at Queens University in Belfast showed that declawing was unsustainable as crabs that had their claws physically removed were much less likely to survive than if the claws were naturally shed.

Low survival rate In the study, crabs with one claw removed showed a greater physiological stress response than crabs allowed to shed a claw naturally. Of the 28 crabs that had one claw removed, five died, whereas no crabs died after shedding their claws naturally. ‘‘There is a suggestion that the practice makes the fishery sustainable but the data on mortality would put this into doubt,’’ Prof Elwood added. At present, Irish fishermen continue to land crab claws, many of which come from poor quality and undersize crabs, and many more are being de-clawed than the law allows.

Law change sought Current legislation prohibits the landing of crab claws that exceed 1% of the weight of whole crabs. Some fishermen now believe that a more rational approach should be taken whereby the practice of de-clawing should be banned and then processors would have to buy the whole crab instead of just the claws. Figures show that a total of 482 tonnes of crab claws were

Brown crabs in a creel.

landed in 2000; today, however, it is widely believed that the true figure landed is several times higher and undoubtedly has a destructive effect on the stocks of one of Ireland’s most important fisheries.

Photo: J Rafferty

Latest fishing vessel category sees completion of safety regime By Gillian Mills

ENVIRONMENTAL INFO information on the environment / eolas ar an gcomhshaol

Looking for information on the Environment?

NEW safety measures for Irish fishing vessels in the 15-24m category came into effect on a phased basis on 1 October, beginning with new builds and to be followed by other age categories on an annual basis thereafter. The regulations relate to construction, stability, machinery and equipment, fire protection, life saving appliances, radio communications, navigation equipment and

crew accommodation. Making the announcement, Minister for Transport and Marine Noel Dempsey TD said he wanted to see the risks involved minimised ‘‘as far as possible. ‘‘The objective is to provide improved safety and ultimately to save lives.’’ Once the regulations come into force for a particular vessel age category, those vessels will be subject to survey and certification by the Marine Survey Office of

the Department of Transport. Compliance with the safety regime will be required to renew a sea-fishing licence. This category of vessel is the latest development in a phased approach aimed at improving safety measures on all fishing vessels. All fishing vessels are now encompassed within the safety regime. Vessels of less than 15 metres are already covered by a Code of Practice, and vessels over 24 metres by the 2002 Safety Regulations.

Contact there are now 7 easy ways to get in touch 1. Write to: ENFO, 17, St. Andrew Street, Dublin 2 2. Telephone: 01-888 3910 / 888 3913 or 1890 200 191 (LoCall) 3. Fax: 01-888 3946 4. E-mail: info@enfo.ie 5. Website: www.enfo.ie

6. Visit: The drop-in centre at 17, St. Andrew Street, Dublin 2, (off Dame Street) and see the exhibition, visit the children’s corner, see environmental DVDs and visit our library. 7. Check out: The ENFO information stands at your Local Authority office or County/City Library.

it’s easy | to make a difference

Vessels such as the 17m Falcon of York (red) will be required to undergo a full safety survey. Photo: G Mills

MEP calls for EU coastguard FINE GAEL MEP Gay Mitchell has asked the EU Commission if it will take steps to propose a European Union Coastguard to assist with combating drug importation. On behalf of the Commissioin, Mr Frattini gave the following response: ‘‘It should be noted that the primary responsibility of the control at external borders lies with the national authorities. To coordinate the efforts undertaken at national level, some structures exist at European Union level in the area of protecting our borders against threats of various kinds. These include Euro-

pol (crime), Frontex (border control), and the European Maritime Safety Agency. There are other agencies which play a protective role but not in a specifically law enforcement context. In addition there are a number of regional cooperation arrangements between Member States such as the Baltic Sea Task Force (which covers drugs as one of its priorities) and MAOC-N (Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre — Narcotics). There is also ever closer operational and strategic cooperation between European po-

lice forces through Europol and the Comprehensive Operational Strategic Planning for the Police (COSPOL). The Commission itself - applying EC customs and internal market legislation - plays an active part in international cooperation worldwide (e.g. Project PRISM) to prevent the diversion of chemical precursors used in the production of drugs. This is done with operational assistance from national customs and police forces. The Commission monitors the situation closely and is exploring ways in which it could act as a facilitator to

INSHORE IRELAND

MARINE INSTITUTE

November 2007

SEA CHANGE

20m for new research Dr Peter Heffernan, chief executive, Marine Institute

FOLLOWING the announcement of the Beaufort Marine Research Awards by Minister Mary Coughlan, Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Food, and Minister Eamon Ryan, Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, in September, almost 20 million in new research funding will be invested in five marine research groups in UCC, DCU, NUIG, Queens University and the Marine Institute. This will create some 140 new positions for researchers and students to begin work on

Sea Change on climate change marine climate change By Dr Glenn Nolan tional programme to address these * Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey, Dr Peter Heffernan and Kevin Bonner, chairman of the Marine Institute, at the official launch of Sea Change. five of the priority research topics identified in Sea Change.

Topics

* Ecosystems Approach to Fisheries Management

* Marine Biodiscovery

* Marine Sensors and Commu-

nications * Fish Population Genetics * Marine Economic and Social Research. Advertisements seeking suitably qualified candidates have been placed in the press and

details are available on our own website at www.marine.ie/seachange. The work of three of these groups are described below and will be followed up by further articles in the next edition of Inshore Ireland.

Fisheries management Ð an ecosystem approach By John Joyce

THE Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAF) represents a shift in how scientists advise on the harvesting of fish from the ocean. EAF moves away from the traditional idea of maximising the amount of fish that can be removed from the sea to that of ensuring the ecosystem in which the fish live is preserved in a healthy state. A consortium of marine scientists from the Fisheries Science Services Team of the Marine Institute, University College Cork and Queens' University of Belfast have been awarded a Beaufort Marine Research Award to develop a centre of excellence on the island of Ireland, focused on EAF. The project will be led by a principal investigator of international standing, based at the Marine Institute in Oranmore, Galway. In addition, Post-Doc and PhD positions will be funded at both universities in the consortium. ``It's important to understand that developing the EAF into a suite of applied methods that can be used by fisheries managers will take some time,'' said

Dr Paul Connolly of the Marine Institute. ``Making this new approach work in the real world will require the application of a lot of new concepts and involve working closely with the fishing industry. The EAF represents an èvolution' Ð not a `revolution' Ð in fisheries management and will lead to a change in the way we view the harvesting of the ocean's fish resources.'' To bring about this èvolution' in a realistic and pragmatic way, the project will harness the broad scientific expertise of the partners. The work will focus on such areas as integrating diverse data sets in a new way; modelling the ecosystem in which the fish live; mapping out sensitive fish habitats; ensuring the use of environmentally-friendly fishing gear and developing fisheries management plans that have the EAF at their core. `Ìn practical terms, scientists, managers, industry and society share the common goal of a healthy ecosystem,'' Dr Connolly added, ``for only in a healthy ecosystem can we have sustainable fisheries that can support a thriving maritime economy.''

THE seas and oceans play a critical role in moderating climate. In one of the Foresight Series reports on which the Sea Change Strategy is based, Rick Boelens and his fellow authors* predicted that within a few decades, wetter winters could lead to periodic flash floods, increased storm intensity and wave height which, when combined with rising sea level, could accelerate erosion of soft shores and increase the incidence of flooding in low-lying areas. In the marine environment, some native species currently at the southerly limit of their ranges may be forced to move north as seawater temperatures increase, while species inhabiting warmer areas to the south may be encouraged to extend their range northwards into Irish waters. Rising seawater temperatures could also cause the timing and intensity of the spring plankton bloom to change (there is already evidence that this is happening), while new fisheries and new species for aquaculture Ð which might even include the fishing and farming of tuna Ð may develop. The Sea Change strategy recognises the need for a na-

issues, and funding recently available under the Government's Strategy for Science, Technology

and

Innovation

(SSTI). The Marine Institute aims to publish an Ocean Climate Status Report for Ireland to report on how well current marine and freshwater monitoring methods are performing and to ensure that the data critical for climate change assessment is gathered as efficiently as possible. The programme will also promote the closest possible collaboration between the main research agencies involved in climate change research, including the EPA, Met EÂireann and NUI Maynooth. It will also agree an integrated work programme to ensure that information critical for climate change studies is included in other sampling programmes. A National Ocean Climate Change Research Plan 2009 to

is expected to be published in late 2008. *Boelens, R., Minchin, D. and O Sullivan, G., (2005) 2013

Climate Change Ð Implications for Ireland's Marine Environment

and

Resources:

Marine

April 2005. Marine Institute, Oranmore, Galway. 40pp Foresight Series No. 2.

An ecological approach to fisheries management is an `evolution' * Salinity Plot of Galway Bay. not a `revolution'.

The world of marine biodiscovery Studying the bottom line Ð the By Barry McCall social and economic dimension NEW drugs, new cosmetics and sun-blocks, new superfoods Ð marine organisms hold the potential to deliver all of these. This is why a research programme in marine biodiscovery is being funded under the Beaufort scheme to examine the chemical and structural properties of marine organisms in terms of their potential to deliver novel materials for drug discovery and functional foods (superfoods) development, as well as other useful biomaterials. This programme will be coordinated by the Marine Institute and undertaken by the Environmental Research Institute (ESRI) at University College, Cork, the Martin Ryan Institute at NUIG and the School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University, Belfast. ``Ireland has a large, varied and diverse marine environment, particularly when you take into account our claims over the Continental shelf. The

country also has good areas of expertise in the medical biotechnology industry and in the broad ICT sector. In this sense, we have all the resources and building blocks in place for a successful marine biodiscovery programme,'' `says Eoin Sweeney, programme manager for the Marine Institute's Sea Change

Discovery

Research

. Sweeney points to home grown pharmaceutical giant Elan to illustrate biodiscovery's potential. ``One of Elan's latest drugs is a very powerful painkiller known as Prialt, which is derived from a marine snail. This is far more powerful than morphine and is said to have none of the negative side effects. Ireland's vast marine biodiversity has never really been investigated and the potential exists for many similar beneficial discoveries.'' Sweeney adds it is easy to see how these might arise. ``Take for example marine life left exposed to the sun for hours at a time when the tide goes out. Measure

These must have very effective natural sun-block mechanisms. The study of those mechanisms could yield very obvious benefits.'' In 2005, the Marine Institute funded a `proof of concept' exercise to establish how such a programme could be operated. ``We identified where the potential centres of expertise were in this field and funded eight potential partners in five universities,'' says Sweeney. ``Arising out of this study, three partners were successful in securing funding under the Beaufort scheme to begin a marine biodiscovery programme.'' In all, the programme has been awarded 7.2 million over seven years. This is specifically for capacity building and to fund the core expertise required to implement the programme. Indeed, in many ways it can be viewed as `seed funding'. It is an investment in people, not equipment or research effort,'' he emphasises.

FOR an island nation with a marine sector valued at 3bn per annum, it's hard to believe that Ireland has no formal, structured economic research Ð either for marine industries or the coastal communities they support. This is all set to change, however, through a research project led by Michael Cuddy, Professor of Economics and Director of CERTS (Centre for Rural Transformation & Sustainability) at the National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG).

CERTS

CERTS comprises researchers from various departments in NUIG, including economics, sociology and political science, health promotion, geography and law, and is engaged in economic and social research, covering rural

communities and coastal communities from time to time. ``Sea Change includes various policies for the development of the marine sector,'' notes Prof Cuddy.

Specific actions

``These need to be underpinned by economic research that will help to justify specific actions. For example, scientific research can come up with a number of solutions to the same problem, but economic research can help to decide which option is the best one in terms of economic or financial criteria.'' This seven-year project will address such issues as the current dearth of marine-related economic data by building a database of baseline information required for accurate economic research into marine and coastal areas; the

value of the marine sector in Ireland, estimating its direct and indirect impact on the national and regional economies and coastal communities, and research into the factors affecting the competitiveness of all aspects of the marine sector.

Research cluster

``A key element of our project is aimed at creating a research cluster in the Galway area involving NUIG, the Marine Institute and the Rural Economy Research Centre at Teagasc in Athenry. We hope that one of the outcomes will be the creation of the research capacity to address future marine economic and social research topics,'' says Prof Cuddy.

Ð Barry McCall

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

INTERVIEW

Fishermen's banker sees positive future awaiting seafood industry ART Kavanagh is manager of the AIB Bank in Killybegs and chairman of the AIB Bank Marine and Fishing Steering Group. He has spent almost all of his nearly 41 years in the bank in Co Donegal and half of his working life dealing with the Irish fishing industry.

Q&A

In October 2005, the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, which was discussing issues surrounding the Seafisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Bill 2005, invited him to appear at one of its formal sessions under the chairman-

``Rightly or wrongly I am credited with ship of Deputy Noel O'Flynn. Born and raised in Clonmel in Co Tipperary, Kavanagh dragging the Irish banking sector into the describes his career at the heart of the Irish fishing and aquaculture sectors.'' Speaking candidly to Inshore Ireland, Art seafood industry as an ``interesting journey'', and one that continues to give him ``huge Kavanagh looks to the future of the Irish seafood industry. satisfaction''.

YOU are known as `the fishermen's banker'. What does this mean to you? I

suppose it's almost akin to

becoming

brand!

But

ser-

iously, I'm genuinely very proud of that label. I consider myself to be very much a part of a great industry and I appreciate that the seafood industry has allowed me to be so. Fishermen are the most optimistic people I've ever come across.

Their

willingness

reinvest with or without State assistance special.

makes

them

very

Joey Murrin has de-

scribed fishing as a dirty and dangerous job and so it is. Not enough people realise that and consequently,

fishermen

often than not do not get the respect and credit they deserve.

WHAT was the biggest problem you faced as a banker trying to connect with the Irish fishing industry? I

was totally ignorant of the

seafood

industry at

Commercial

bankers

the start. are

the

same all over the world, they aren't

generally

interested

things that they don't understand. So first, I had to embark on a huge learning curve. And this is where the fishing people themselves and the regulatory bodies surrounding fishing are so unique. They are all incredibly

generous

knowledge

and

passing

information.

They welcomed my interest in

* Art Kavanagh in conversation with Gery Flynn, Inshore Ireland.

WHEN did things begin to either through Norwegian or change with regard to finan- Dutch Banks. cing the Irish fishing fleet? WHERE does AIB rank with regard to financing the Irish THE turnaround began in 1991 fishing industry? when AIB financed its first big Irish boat. It went from there so

CENTRAL

Bank records sug-

that today, none of the Irish fleet

gest that Irish banks have lent

me well. To deal professionally

is financed outside the country.

400

with any sector, we must under-

Up until then, all of the big Irish

industry.

stand how it works.

fishing

their industry and they taught

ships

were

financed

million

I believe we are seen as leaders,

positive

enough people realise that. On

and I am trying to create a data

image of itself with the general

the positive side however, recent

base within the Bank to allow us

public. Too many negative stor-

industry reports are serving to

to retain that position, after I

ies have found their way into the

improve the seafood industry's

retire in just over three years.

media recently and in general,

image overall.

HAS the fishing industry done enough to promote itself through active PR?

promote

have not been effectively counThe

fishing

would

account

THE Irish fishing industry has a

Irish

for a large portion of that figure.

very serious public relations job

years

seafood

industry

has

been a huge contributor to the economy and

This year's report,

New Course'

teracted.

the

AIB

Photos: G Mills

over

believe

the that

`Steering a

by Noel Cawley,

Ruan O'Bric and Joey Murrin was remarkable.

past

It is one of the finest reports

not

ever written on the Irish seafood

INSHORE IRELAND

November 2007

INTERVIEW

* Art would like to see some form of Government incentive that would allow our processors to explore opportunities with new species. industry. I only hope that gov-

conference

ernment will implement as much

2008.

planned

for

early

WHAT are the challenges DO you see growth opportu- facing fish processors in terms nities in the aquaculture sec- of investment? tor? of it as possible.

LACK

STATISTICS

show

that

continuity

the

supply of raw material is im-

demand for seafood product just

pacting on the sector. For ex-

simply cannot be satisfied from

ample, not only have the catch

wild

quotas

capture.

Therefore,

the

for

pelagic

fishermen

necessity to farm it is absolutely

been halved, the migratory pat-

vital. And whether people like it

tern of fish stocks has changed

both

also Ð keeping them up north

marine and freshwater Ð will

not,

aquaculture

for longer. Add to that the price

become more and more impor-

tant as a quality food supplier.

economic sense for a Killybegs

Ireland can be a leading aqua-

trawler

culture producer because of our

Norway and Scotland for pro-

relatively

clean

coastline

diesel

and

land

makes its

catch

cessing. I would like to see some form of Government incentive

opportunities for aquaculture are

that would allow our processors

clear to see, and I believe that it

will continue to grow as a key

new

supplier of quality product.

financial

opportunities There

risks

and

but

Agriculture,

hope it manages to get the same encouragement and support that the

farming

industry

has

got

over the years. Only good can come of that. It is also critical that government and the seafood industry work hand-in-hand to implement

the

Cawley

propo-

sals. If they do, there is every

we much

will

particular, and I'm not sure that

Irish

anyone else is either. I person-

see

fitter

seafood industry.

APART from the seafood industry, is AIB looking to other sectors, such as freshwater and marine leisure as perhaps the next big investment area? WE

aren't

looking

ally

believe however,

huge

scope

for

there is

enormous

growth. If someone comes to me with a project proposal that is well

WHERE do you see yourself and the seafood industry in 10 years? HOPEFULLY

we'll both be fit

and well! I am on the last lap of my career in the bank. However,

researched, well thought out and

I hope to continue to work with

well presented, I have no doubt

the

that I or the other banks would

role for as long as I'm able and

examine it carefully.

as long as they need me.

industry

consultative

with

will I

that

slimmer

into

and

species.

chance

Department

some good sheltered bays. The

explore

ing industry coming under the

Photo: J McConnell

believe

WHAT has been the biggest problem for bankers and in- ARE you optimistic that Irevestors regarding the aqua- land will be able to sustain a culture sector? thriving seafood industry? those risks should be shared.

TRADITIONALLY,

one of the

THE

ability of our government

major difficulties for fish farm-

to negotiate larger quotas in the

ers

funding

near future is very very limited,

because of the lack of a fixed

was

raising

so we have to make the best of

asset and a licence that could be

what

used as security. Cawley how-

missioning

ever, has recommended that the

viously reduce the number of

licence term should be extended to

years,

and

should

assignable. That

will

boats

we've

got.

The

scheme

targeting

fish

decom-

will stocks

obso

quota management will have to be looked at carefully. There are

important

and

some

silly

rules at

with

the

quota

will form part of the discussions

management

moment.

at the Investment in Aquaculture

Nevertheless, now with the fish-

* Art Kavanagh hopes to continue working within the fishing industry for a long time to come.

Photo: J McConnell

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

WATER MANAGEMENT

* The carpet of Lagarosisphon is so dense in places that swans have been seen walking on it.

Ornamental plant devastating native aquatic species tional Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research of New Zealand Ð told a public meeting in Galway that a national programme to tackle invasive plants like the Africa weed Lagarosiphon major were likely to be very expensive and would succeed only if they Dr John Clayton, a senior were well planned from the scientist and aquatic plants spe- start. ``Unfortunately, it's not as cialist with NIWA Ð the NaIRELAND needs to avoid repeating the mistakes made by countries that tried to eradicate freshwater invasive aquatic species if it is to have an effective programme of control, an international expert has indicated, reports Gery Flynn.

simple as going out and just cutting the weed,'' he warned. ``For a control or eradication programme to be really effective and to get the `best bang for your buck', you have to put a lot of thought into it from the start. You must know exactly what you are doing and where you are doing it.'' Dr Clayton revealed that reluctance by the New Zealand

PUBLIC CONSULTATION MEETINGS ON THE WATER MATTERS REPORT Western River Basin District and the Local Authorities in the Western River Basin District The Western River Basin District Water Matters Report highlights National and Local issues affecting water quality in the local rivers, lakes, estuaries, coastal waters and groundwater in the Basin. The Water Matters Booklet: . Identifies clearly and concisely what are now considered to be the key pressures on water within the Basin; . Identifies regional and local water management issues; . Outlines what the possible solutions might be; . Asks several questions of the reader and provides contact details for responses.

authorities to provide adequate funding at the start was regarded now as a serious mistake, giving rise to ``a stop-go approach to controlling Lagarosiphon early on. I'd hate to see you in Ireland making the same mistakes and having the same experiences that we had in New Zealand in the beginning. The main problem we had to face was a complete lack of continuity and commitment to funding, which in turn gave rise to a very chequered history of success.'' He added that whenever funding was significant they always managed to cover a lot of ground. ``But then, as soon the problem appeared to go away, no one wanted to go on putting money into it anymore.''

Threat

A native of South Africa, Lagarosiphon is a submerged freshwater plant introduced here to oxygenate ornamental garden ponds and aquaria. In the past few years it has become a serious problem in some waterways and is being seen increasingly as a major threat to the country's indigenous aquatic flora and fauna.

Given optimum condiditons, grows quickly and often produces a dense vegetation on the water surface. It grows to depths of six meters and shades any native plants growing beneath it. Deprived of sunlight, these quickly die off _Ð as do the various invertebrate communities dependent on them for food and shelter. Next, the trout that feed on the invertebrates starve, and eventually they too die off to be replaced by a variety of coarse fish such as roach, bream and pike. The result Ð in a relatively short time Ð is a complete change in the predominent fish community of the water body in question. Lagarosiphon

Background

was first confirmed in Lough Corrib when it was spotted in Rinneroon Bay in the upper part of the lake in May 2005, about six kilometers north-west of Oughterard. At the end of 2005 it had been noted at eight other locations. By 2006 however, the number of confirmed sightings had tripled, indicating just how rapidly it can spread when conditions are right. Lagarosiphon

According to Dr Clayton, the cost of trying to control Lagarosiphon in New Zealand ``have been significant.'' ``Over the past thirty years we have spent about NZ$4 milllion trying to control it. And currently we spend over NZ$300,000 a year on this invasive weed alone.'' He argues that expenditure like this should be seen in context, and reckons that it is money well spent if it manages to protect and preserve a priceless natural resource like the country's lakes. ``In Ireland you will have to ask yourselves the same questions we had to ask: just how much are these high-value water bodies like the Great Western lakes and rivers worth to us? ``They cannot be left to look after themselves, so you are going to have to do it. And once an invasive species like Lagarosiphon gets in, it very quickly changes the whole value of any water body in terms of the way people see it. Therefore, you have to act quickly to preserve what you have. You may not be able to eradicate this weed but you should be able to control and retain it where it is now.''

The Western River Basin District will be embarking on a series of Public Information meetings with a view to highlighting the issues raised in the ’Water Matters’ booklet. These Public Meetings will afford an opportunity to comment on these issues and to advise as to other water issues that should be factored into our future River Basin Management plans. As part of the Public Consultation process we are very eager to hear your opinions in relation to water issues in your locality. All members of the Public are invited and encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be provided on the night. All meetings start at 7.00pm.

Programme of meetings 2007 Date

Location

Wed 10th Oct Mon 5th Nov Tues 6th Nov Tues 13th Nov Thurs 15th Nov Tues 20th Nov Tues 27th Nov

Castlebar, Mayo Sligo Dromahair Co. Leitrim Galway City Clifden, Co. Galway Ballyvaughan, Co.Clare Tuam, Co. Galway

Venue Days Hotel, Castlebar Sligo Park, Hotel Abbey Manor Hotel, Dromahair Radisson SAS, Hotel, Galway City Station House Hotel, Clifden St. Johns Community Hall, Ballyvaughan Corralea Court Hotel

The ’Water Matters’ booklet can be downloaded from www.westernrbd.ie. It is also available free of charge from the Western RBD Project Office,

Tel: 091-746804 or; email: pcanney@galwaycoco.ie.

* An underwater view of Lagarosisphon growing in Lough Corrib.

Photos: J Caffrey

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

Inshore Ireland is a marine/freshwater newspaper compiled by journalists, Gillian Mills and Gery Flynn and distributed by the Irish Farmers Journal. In news, feature and advertorial format, Inshore Ireland reports from the coastal rim and inland waterways under the following headings: . Aquaculture . Island tourism . Inshore fisheries . Water management

. Policy and regulation . Engineering & technology . Research and development . Seafood marketing and retail

Inshore Ireland has a circulation of 36,000 copies and a readership of 145,500. It is also posted directly to key individuals in the marine sector and is available six times a year by subscription.

www.inshore-ireland.com Editor: Gillian Mills: 01 2354804/087 2902045; mills@inshore-ireland.com

Features: Gery Flynn: 091 844822/085 7475797; flynn@inshore-ireland.com

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INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

WATER MANAGEMENT

Overall water quality standards in Ireland ‘satisfactory’ — EPA WATER Quality in Ireland 2006 — Key indicators of the Aquatic Environment, a report from the Environmental Protection Agency on the state of Ireland’s water finds that a high percentage of it was ‘of a satisfactory standard’. Covering 13,200 km of river and stream channel, 421 lakes, 69 tidal water bodies (from 21 estuarine and coastal areas) and 285 groundwater sources, the report’s results ‘indicate a further increase in the extent of satisfactory water quality in river and lakes compared with previous assessments’. Despite this, it notes that the level of water pollution here ‘remains unacceptable and sizeable’, with the level of contamination from bacteria and nutrients on the increase,

and fish kills in rivers still ‘unacceptably high’.

Coliform increase The report finds that for the first time since 1995, bacteriological contamination of groundwater from faecal coliforms has increased — an alarming conclusion given that groundwater provides a significant amount of Ireland’s drinking water. Nitrate contamination of groundwater is also a cause for concern, with the report finding that 25% of the locations examined ‘exceeded the national guideline value for nitrate concentration for drinking water in the period 2004-2006’ — a 2% increase on the 2001-2003 period. Significantly, the report notes

EPA report: Water Quality in Ireland 2006 71% of river channel length - satisfactory 92% of lake surface area examined - satisfactory * 19% of estuarine/coastal water bodies examined - eutrophic * 3% of estuarine/coastal water bodies examined - potentially eutrophic * 57% of groundwater sampling locations - contaminated by faecal coliforms * 25% (approx) of groundwater locations examined exceeded the national guideline value for nitrate concentration for drinking water * 2% of groundwater locations - breached the mandatory limit * Bathing waters — quality very good * Fish kill numbers — less than 2005, but remains unacceptably high * *

‘Loading of phosphate and nitrate, in excess of background levels, is the principal pressure on surface waters in Ireland leading to eutrophication’, the report states. Likewise, the percentage of lake surface area with satisfactory water quality status ‘has also increased’ in the period 2004-2006. Nevertheless according to the report, 66 (14.5%) of the 449 lakes assessed were ‘less than satisfactory’, while 15 (3.3%) were ‘highly polluted’.

Enrichment evidence that ‘2% of locations breached the mandatory limit’ for nitrates. As for surface waters, the finding in regard to rivers is that

there was ‘overall satisfactory water quality’ — with a 1.2% improvement on the previous period of assessment 20032006.

Of the 69 water bodies from 21 estuarine and coastal areas examined in the period 20022006, the report concludes that there was ‘an increase in the

numbers showing evidence of enrichment’. Alarm bells will sound among shellfish producers with the finding that the ‘quality of shellfish waters showed a marked decline in 2006 compared to the previous year with a reduction in the percentage of those waters assessed to be of the highest quality for the purpose of shellfish shellfish production from 30% to 25%’. For bathing waters however, the news was better. The report concludes that water quality at the 131 bathing water locations in Ireland ‘remains very good [and] shows little change from 2005’. The full report is available from www.epa.ie to download for free.

The hunt begins for most erratic block AS part of the celebrations of the International Year of the Planet Earth which begins on 1 January 2008, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Eamon Ryan TD has launched a schools’ competition: ‘How Erratic is Your Block?’ Organised by the Geological

Survey of Ireland (GSI), the competition is aimed at transition year students in the Republic of Ireland and Year 11 and 12 students in Northern Ireland. It seeks to stimulate geological awareness among school pupils and encourage them to consider pursuing geoscience at third level. ‘‘This competition will

Mapping Ireland’s inshore territory: - prioritised suite of integrated marine mapping surveys - delivery of integrated knowledge, products, services and competencies

Bantry / Dunmanus entry

Galway Bay lidar coverage

www.gsi.ie

www.marine.ie

assist in the process of opening young people’s minds to the wonders of the geological processes that have shaped our landscape, and help them to develop a broad understanding of environmental issues. ‘‘Such a hands-on approach to education, particularly ecological education, is to be encouraged. The more we understand about the living world around us, the more we understand the necessity to conserve it for future generations,’’ Minister Ryan said. Students are being asked to identify an erratic (out-of-place rock) and to explain in a short essay where it is and how it got there. This could range from a fragment of a rock in a pebble dash wall to a displaced boulder on a mountainside. Cash prizes of €300 will be awarded to the best entries from all 32 counties and a top

Ireland’s countryside is strewn with erratic rocks.

prize, the Maxwell Henry Close Award (see panel) of €1,000, will be presented to the best overall entry. All participating schools will receive a geological wall map of Ireland and the winner will also receive digital equipment to the value of €1,500. The competition closes on Friday, 14 March 2008.

Photos: GSI

BORN in 1823, the Rev Maxwell Henry Close was an eminent Irish geologist of international repute. He was the first to understand the comprehensive and complex way in which Ireland was glaciated during the Ice Age, and introduced both the term ‘drumlin’ and our understanding of such features to the international literature. He was also one of the most effective protagonists in the campaigns in support of the preservation and promotion of the Irish language of the latter part of the 19th century and the first years of the 20th century.

Public participation sought in water management plan THE Western River Basin District is currently running a series of public information evenings on the issues affecting water quality in local rivers, lakes, estuaries, coastal waters and groundwaters. These meetings form part of the public consultation process for the Water Matters booklet. Launched in June, the booklet identifies clearly and concisely what are now considered to be the key pressures on water in the locality and around the country. According to Western RBD Project coordinator Pat Canney, the meetings allow the public to have their say on water matters. ‘‘If anyone knows of addi-

Mon 5 Nov Tues 13 Nov Thurs 15 Nov Tues 20 Nov Wed 27 Nov

tional information that should be factored into our future River Basin Management plans, we are very eager to hear from them,’’ he said. The booklet aims to attract public involvement as required under the EU Water Framework Directive. The Directive sets out a timeframe with clear objectives to ensure that all European waters reach good status by the 2015. A six-month window of opportunity for providing comments is available to the public up to the end of December 2007. Next year, based on the responses and the ongoing work, a major management plan for Irish water bodies will be

Sligo Galway City Clifden, Co Galway Ballyvaughan, Co Clare Tuam, Co Galway

Sligo Park, Hotel Radisson SAS Hotel Station House Hotel Community Hall Corralea Court Hotel

prepared. This consultation phase aims to ensure that all significant issues are included in the River Basin Management Plan. For further information on the meetings and to download

Lough BoDerg.

Water Matters go to www.westernrbd.ie or contact Pat Canney, Project Coordinator, Western River Basin District by email at pcanney@galwaycoco.ie or by phone on 091746804.

INSHORE IRELAND

November 2007

Supporting Measures for Sea Fisheries Development Towards Innovation and Sustainability in the Fisheries Sector Bord Iascaigh Mhara wish to announce that applications are now being sought for a further tranche of grant aid under the Supporting Measures for Sea Fisheries Development as part of the National Development Plan 2000-2006. Since the programme’s inception in 2001, ninety seven projects have been approved with a total investment of over »23 million. Building on the success of the programme to date, BIM now invites proposals for the next round of aid under the following headings: N E-Trade and other IT Policies N Small Scale Coastal Fisheries N Producer Organisations N Quality Certification, Added Value, Traceability and Working Conditions N Collection of Basic Data for Fisheries N Improved Knowledge and Transparency N Sustainable Fisheries Management N Experimental Fisheries/Technical Conservation Measures. On this occasion priority will be given to projects where the applicant bears a varying proportion of the costs – those projects categorised as ‘private’ – and those considered to best support the aims of the programme. Private projects, that meet the mandatory requirements of the scheme, can receive grant aid of up to 40% of total eligible costs. It should be noted that all projects must be completed by 31st December 2007. Full details are contained in the programme brochure “Towards Innovation and Sustainability in the Fisheries Sector” which is available on the BIM website www.bim.ie or by contacting: An Bord Iascaigh Mhara, Fisheries Development Division PO Box 12, Crofton Road, Dún Laoghaire, County Dublin Tel: 01 2144100 • Fax: 01 2300564 • E-Mail: fisheries@bim.ie Or by contacting your local BIM Area or Inshore Officer. Completed application forms should be returned to BIM Head Office at the above address. This measure is part-financed by the European Community under the Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance

Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources An Roinn Cumarsáide, Mara agus Acmhainní

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

Quality guides to achieve premium fish standards INSHORE FISHERIES

BIM has launched a new series of seafood quality guides which provide species-specific information on quality, handling and adding value to whitefish landed and are aimed primarily at vessel crew, buyers and processors. Speaking at the launch, John Browne TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food said that proper handling was vital if Irish fishermen want to achieve the best possible price for their work: ``These seven, easy to follow guides, provide an important training and reference tool for the seafood industry. I commend BIM for delivering these excellent, user-friendly guides. ``An important element of the Marine Strategy, Steering a New Course, launched earlier

this year was the need to substantially enhance quality throughout the supply chain. ``These guides make an important contribution to that objective and I have no doubt they will prove to be a valuable resource in assisting the industry to maximise quality and inturn financial return.''

Background

In 1999, BIM launched the first whitefish quality guide, which detailed freshness, quality grades of the main commercial whitefish species and outlined basic good handling requirements. According to Frances O'Dwyer, BIM resource development technologist, popularity of the original guide and the changing face of fishing led to this latest

initiative: ``Over the past decade, the face of fishing in Ireland has changed dramatically, due to reduced quotas, major increases in vessel running costs and increased legislation regarding food safety and traceability. BIM is committed to ensuring it provides relevant and timely information that best supports all facets of the industry, based on the changing fishing landscape. The guides are one such source of important information to help ensure the optimum quality of the catch,'' she said. Species-specific guides have been produced for monk and hake due to their particular market handling requirements, while the remaining commercial species have been grouped based on similar freshness attributes and market requirements.

* John Browne, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (centre) launching the seafood industry quality guides for whitefish at Howth Pier, Dublin. Pictured with the Minister is Jason Whooley, BIM chief Executive and Frances O'Dwyer, BIM.

Within each quality guide, a combination of high resolution colour images of eyes, gills and skin and brief text descriptions provides a clear overview of the various quality grades from excellent through to poor. Specific information on correct gutting, washing and pack-

handling will be available by the end of 2007.

ing is also provided. In addition, a handling guide provides more detail on `best practice' onboard vessels with regard to handling and hygiene and promotes delivery of premium quality fish. Three further quality guides for crab, lobster and prawns and on pelagic

* Copies available from Frances O'Dwyer, Resource Development and Environment Section, BIM Offices, Killybegs, Co Donegal, Ireland.

biomass of cockles in the Bay. The remaining biomass will allow for recruitment in 2008 and also preserve the food source for over-wintering birds.

The early closure of the fishery in October, before the TAC was taken, will also minimise disturbance of over-wintering bird populations in the area.

Closure of Dundalk cockle fishery Report by Oliver Tully, BIM Inshore Fisheries Coordinator

THE cockle fishery in Dundalk Bay was closed on Friday 12 October 2007 by voluntary agreement of the Dundalk Bay Local Advisory Committee. Although none of the conditions for closure, outlined in the management plan, was reached, the Committee advised that the fishery should close because of a pending spat settlement and because of a risk that the catch and impact of hand rakers on the stock was underestimated. Logbook data from the vessels, submitted to and compiled by BIM, indicated that a total catch of 580 tonnes was taken by 30 vessels during the threemonth fishery. The TAC was 900 tonnes. Hand-rakers, of which there may have been over 100 according to local estimates, may have taken an additional 200 tonnes. The Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (S-FPA) is currently compiling the landings from hand-rakers. The stock size and TAC within the areas of the bay open

to the fishery was estimated from a pre-fishery survey by BIM and NUIG. Observed declines in catch rates, calculated from the logbook data obtained during the season, were also used to calculate the pre-fishery abundance of cockles. The two estimates: the survey and that calculated from the logbook, correlated. This suggests not only that the survey estimates were good but also that the logbook data was complete and accurate. The logbook data were invaluable in managing the fishery and in anticipating the expected date of closure. Although management of the fishery was successful in 2007, a number of issues and problem areas still exist and pose a threat to the ongoing sustainable development of the fishery. A policy and licencing regime for hand rakers and a mechanism to limit the number of vessels that participate in the fishery are both necessary if the fishery is to remain economically viable for those participating in it. The Dundalk Bay area is classified as an SAC and SPA, and although the current man-

* Part of the cockle fleet after landing at Dundalk

* Cockles being loaded for sale at Annagassan.

agement plan restricts the location and timing of the fishery and the total catch, future management plans will need to consider environmental issues

more thoroughly to ensure compliance with the Birds and Habitats Directives. The total catch in 2007 was approximately 30% of the total

* Some of the handrakers at Annagassan, Co Louth.

Photos: BIM

INSHORE IRELAND

November 2007

INSHORE FISHERIES

Classification regime heads up Gigas oyster workshop OYSTER farmers and government agencies met recently at an Irish Shellfish Association/BIM joint workshop in Sligo to discuss industry developments in marketing, production techniques and protecting water quality in bays around the coast, reports Shay Fennelly. Richie Flynn, ISA Executive Secretary, outlined the implications of winning the EU case it had taken against the Irish government in 2004. ``In 1994, 14 areas were designated but there was no protection in 54 other bays. No pollution control measures were in place and the ISA case was completely accepted by the European Court of Justice. Following the ruling in August, 1.2bn is now being committed by government. That's what we have achieved.'' He added that it has taken the government 26 years to recognise the value of coastal waters for seafood production, and that 68 areas would now have ongoing pollution reduction programmes. He warned however that no Statutory Instrument was yet published and that delineation was up for discussion. ``The government must provide the budget to upgrade waste water treatment plants,'' he said. Flor Harrington, the new ISA chairman, said he would like to see the shellfish farm licencing issue sorted out and a compensation scheme for farmers who were affected by the Karenia plankton bloom in 2005.

Protection scheme

The workshop also heard

French shellfish quality manager Michelle Brossard describe the largest oyster growing area in Europe, MareÂnnes-Oleron, where 40,000 tonnes of gigas oysters are produced. He said that French oyster farmers were seeking PGI Ð protected geographical indication Ð for their oysters, to protect the area's products and farmers, and to give both French and European recognition to the product: ``Consumers are reassured that they are getting the genuine product with a clear price segmentation. PGI in France has longer term implications for the Irish gigas industry because

much of the Irish production is bulk export to France where it is relayed rather than being a branded Irish oyster product.'' Brossard works for Section ReÂgionale Conchylicole, a regional shellfish association. They represent shellfish farmers, protect shellfish production, carry out shellfish quality audits and organise certification and promote the qualities of MareÂnnes-Oleron oyster products. BIM marketing manager Nicholas Ranninger said it could take three years for certification of an Irish Gigas product if a working group was set up and a further two years for European PGI certification.

Quality scheme

Recent pilot oyster growing trials in France and Ireland were outlined by Olivier Laban from Arachon and Trish Daly from BIM. Vicky Lyons, BIM, introduced the Irish Quality Oyster scheme EN45011 which aims to assure buyers of high standards of oyster quality and safety. Lyons encouraged oyster growers to apply for certification to increase the scheme's current membership of two farms. Cathy Henay, Marine Institute, explained the current EU legislation 91/67/EEC governing placement of aquaculture

products on the market and the application process for the movement of gigas oysters. Edward Carvill, an oyster farmer from Carlingford Lough, revealed some of the difficulties facing farmers in Northern Ireland and said that the different approaches to biotoxin monitoring on both sides of the lough needed to be harmonised. ``On the north side, testing is carried out on a site-by-site basis whereas on the south side, it is done on a bay-by-bay basis.'' He added that in March, for example, when his outer site was closed, the inner sites were open. A third of oyster sites in

Northern Ireland are not designated and licensing can take up to seven years. Getting planning permission for aquaculture premises is more difficult in Northern Ireland because they are designated as industrial rather than agricultural premises. Carvill described the application process for aquaculture funding in Northern Ireland as ``diabolical'' and ``not business friendly''. An aquaculture R&D grant, a development policy and more representation for aquaculture at government level ``if it were available would help develop the industry,'' he concluded.

Vigorous discussion on new classification regime for shellfish bays THE introduction of a new classification system for bays where shellfish is grown was hotly debated at the workshop. David Lyons, Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) and Peter Whelan, Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) outlined the new classification regime published in the Microbological Monitoring Good Practice Guide , which will determine whether a shellfish farm is Category A or Category B (requiring depuration). According to Lyons, the whole idea of the good practice guide is to give the shellfish industry a competitive advantage by adopting a proactive approach to managing risk. The benefits would be: maximise production and trade opportunities; enhance the reputation of Irish oysters; improve risk management; reduce regulatory intervention; increase producer involvement; bring greater flexibility and reduce cost in cash terms.

On the other hand, the drawbacks would be a total increase in costs, e.g. time; more work initially, the potential for inconsistent application and reliance on individuals.

``The survey that must be carried out first has to determine the sampling points and involve stakeholders. We must have the samples from shellfish growers to classify the area in order to meet our audits. The Minister will then Challenges ahead issue a designation order using data on The challenges facing both the agencies a 12-month basis. The first designation and the industry included work re- order will be made on the last twelve distribution, a greater contribution from month's of data. the industry, more 'upfront' resources Pollution inventory and competing priorities. Microbiologist Dr Bill Dore, Marine Dr Terence O'Carroll, BIM, said that Institute, said that a classification under EU Regulation 854/2000, Ireland system was needed because an area was required to make an inventory of can be contaminated with faecal pollu- all pollution, examine that pollution tion and therefore present a significant and establish a sampling programme. risk to consumers: ``All new areas are to have a sanitary ``The classification system is the survey completed by 2011, but they are most important measure to protect not compulsory. The main need in the public health and will help to determine designation process is to describe the the level of treatment,'' he said. area and produce water quality imMaire Henson (SFPA) said that provement programmes.'' under food safety legislation, sanitary O'Carroll added that raw sewage surveys are required for all new areas. discharges were evident in many areas

around the coast: ``Last July the government increased funding to 370m to upgrade sewage works and has recognised the need to spend 540m to deal with shellfish waters. This infrastructure upgrade will take five to six years. If the money is allocated in the next budget estimates the work will be done,'' he said. French oyster farmer Jean-FrancËoise Giraud from Arachon said that in France, farmers have to do their own testing on top of what the authorities do. Richie Flynn said part of the problem in Ireland was that producers do not get the microbiological test results until the end of the year. ``Who will give them monthly results?'' he asked. Peter Whelan said he was in favour of every producer having access to their own results and that the SFPA will operate a water quality monitoring programme in shellfish areas and will also investigate sources of water pollution.

How happy are your fish? ENSURING that the very highest standards of animal husbandry and fish welfare are being met is central to an innovative new course being offered by BIM. Stemming from initial discussions with the aquaculture industry, the Level 6 Farmed Fish Welfare Training Course, which has received approval from the Further Education and Training Awards Council (FETAC), is aimed at those working with finfish Ð whether in commercial growing or research Ð and covers a range of species including salmon, cod and trout, as well as some tropical and ornamental species. The course is designed and tailored both for those working day-to-day with the fish as well as those in management. BIM, in conjunction with IFQC SMART Training Solutions and Vet Aqua International, will deliver the three-

day training courses, which comprises two classroom days and a follow-up practical farm day, in three locations around the coast, namely: * Letterkenny (7-8 November) * Galway (13-14 November) * Cork (21-22 November). According to Dr Susan Steele, aquaculture and business training coordinator, as the sector continues to grow, there is a need to ensure that the work being done in welfare on Irish farms is recognized and supported through training. ``This course aims to make a difference and fits in well with the other 44 courses currently provided by BIM to the Irish aquaculture industry. BIM is using new teaching techniques to make the courses practical, relevant and interesting, to ensure that people undertaking the training get the maximum benefit out of their time away from the workplace,'' she said.

``Those who successfully complete this FETAC Level 6 module will develop an awareness of the importance of farmed fish welfare and how it relates to responsible aquaculture practices. They will develop good welfare work practices on observing the farmed fish stock and be able to understand responsible animal husbandry principles and practices for aquaculture,'' she added. The course covers other areas such as fish biology; disease recognition; water quality measuring and biosecurity, which are important to fish welfare. IFQC SMART Training Solutions sees the course as fitting in with the rising awareness of today's marketplaces of the prerequisite for good welfare.

Course details from Dr Susan Steele on 027-71232; txt to 087-6825294 or e-mail: steele@bim.ie

* Correct feeding technique is an important aspect of fish welfare and is covered in detail by the Fish Welfare training course from BIM.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

ISLAND LIVING

COMPILED BY GILLIAN MILLS

Fishermen and fish stocks experience impact of salmon ban AS the dust settles on the banning of offshore salmon fishing, island fishermen have had time to reflect on its impact on their livelihoods and on the future of fishing on the islands, reports Séamus Ó Cnáimhsı́. One such fisherman is Gerry Early of Árainn Mhór where the ban has hit particularly hard. Gerry, like many other islanders wears a number of hats, and also runs the popular Early’s Bar when away from his boat. ‘‘There are a number of issues as a result of the salmon ban Firstly there is the compensation scheme. There is no compensation for crew members of salmon boats, and no compensation for nominees. On top of that they have attached a condition whereby anyone who takes up the compensation scheme is not allowed to fish salmon ever again, even if the ban was lifted in future.’’

Complicated conditions Nominees are fishermen who fish on behalf of the licence holder because they could not obtain a licence themselves. Other fishermen feel that the amount of money is small, and

it is also liable for tax. In addition there are quite strict conditions attached with the result that not all genuine fishermen are able to take it up. On Árainn Mhór, 20 fishing boats were involved in the fishery and when dependants of skippers and crew members are considered, around 150 islanders have been affected by the ban. This is a large proportion of the 520 population of the island and represents a significant blow to the island’s fragile economy. ‘‘The knock-on effects are unknown but it will have a major effect on all fishing on the island. For example, many of the boats affected will now have to fish for lobster and this will have an effect on this fishery too. Most of these boats will fish lobster all summer whereas before the lobster had a rest during the salmon season,’’ Early explains.

Conversion costs Other considerations are the cost of changing to lobster fishing; a new lobster pot currently costs about €40 and with each small boat requiring at least two hundred pots to make it viable, coupled with ropes and a pot hauler, the cost

wouild be a minimum of €12,000.

So what for the future? Many of the inshore fishermen are forced through economic necessity to seek work on the mainland; others travel to London and Dublin to find work in construction while their families remain on the island. The salmon fishery was one way for them to spend the summer on the island to earn money, and provide high quality seafood to the local shops and supermarkets. At the moment there is no move by government to provide replacement fisheries for those displaced by the salmon ban. Apart from a repeal of the ban, what is needed is a taskforce with the power to intervene on the islands, and elsewhere, to provide the infrastructure and expertise needed to introduce management regimes, new methods and establish new markets for the hard pressed inshore fisherman. ‘‘Money should not be spent just for the sake of spending it. It should be well thought out and should benefit everybody,’’ Early believes.

On Árainn Mhór, 20 fishing boats were involved in the fishery and when dependants of skippers and crew members are considered, around 150 islanders have been affected by the ban. This is a large proportion of the 520 population of the island and represents a significant blow to the island’s fragile economy. Photo: Nicolas Loncle

Unique storage system set to achieve optimum lobster prices A commercial holding system featuring sophisticated water recirculation technology that allows valuable fish species like lobster, crab and crayfish to be held alive in optimumum conditions for up to six months is undergoing trials on Inis Oı́rr, reports Gery Flynn. The €40,000 one tonne capacity unit — which is already up and running and fully stocked — is on a 12-month loan to the island co-op, Comhar Caomhán Teoranta, from the ARE SHELLTEC Research Centre at Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT). GMIT researchers will train local fishermen how to operate the unit. They will also monitor its overall technical performance and assess the animals stored in it for a range of qualities. This trial is likely to be watched closely by other coastal communities who realise that

holding units like this are the way forward. The trial is funded by Enterprise Ireland through its Applied Research Enhancement (ARE) programme which was created especially to enhance applied research in the Institutes of Technology. ARE programmes qualify for maxium funding up to €1.25 million and may run for up to five years.

Technology transfer Dr Martin Robinson, principal investigator and project manager of ARE Shelltec Research Centre at GMIT told Inshore Ireland that the trial was progressing well. He said he was very happy with the hands-on support his team was receiving in particular from the Galway office of BIM which has enormous practical experience of such holding units. ‘‘From a GMIT perspective,

Live lobsters are prepared for placement in the holding system.

this project is very much in line with our strategy of suppporting regional development and industry through technology transfer,’’ he says. ‘‘We are working very successfully in tandem with Dr Oliver Tully of BIM. The board is keen to see how these holding systems can be used to add value to the product.’’ The market price of lobster is highly dependent upon supply and demand, and the price to fishermen can range by as much as 100% throughout the year. A glut in supply can see prices plumetting as low as €12 per kilo. At other times however, such as in the run up to Christmas when demand for lobster often outstrips supply, prices can triple, and highs of around €33 per kilo are not unusual.

Market control ‘‘For the islanders this project is

particulary important because it gives them a chance to maintain a lot more control. They don’t have to shunt product through in a ‘hot potato’ fashion, and it also gives them the ability to manipulate the market more in their favour.’’ According to Robinson, even though the technology used is sophisticated it is quite straightforward, and he predicts it has wider application whereby many valuable species other than lobster could be held. ‘‘Basically, it’s a recirculation system with a chilling facility in which the dissolved oxygen in the water stays up and the dissolved ammonia stays down. The system ensures also that the animals’ metabolism stays low. When they are not very active they will not metabolise their own tissue. They are also less prone to diseases held like this.’’ he explains. ‘‘It could be quite a useful

Holding system. The grey trays stack easily and contain live lobster.

tool also for crayfish, brown crab and even prawn. But I wouldn’t see it purely as a premarket holding system. It can be used also to chill animals right down so that they are well conditioned to be transported.’’ As to the question of just how long lobsters can maintain peak condition in such a system, Robinson says that if the animals are already in peak condition going in, they can store quite happily for months.’’ ‘‘We have had some animals stored since last April and now six months later they are still fine,’’ he adds.

Key parameters Researchers from the GMIT team have already begun monitoring key parameters such as protein, glucose and lactate in the stored lobster. These rusults will be compared with similar measurements from recentlycaught animals and will indicate

Measuring carapace length.

if market quality is being maintained. According to Paddy Crowe, manager of Comhar Caomhán Teo, the presence of the holding unit is already having a very positive impact on the wider Inis Oı́rr community. ‘‘The project has been welcomed wholeheartedly by the islanders and is regarded by everyone, not just fishermen, as something that is likely to bring major economic benefits to the community. The fishermen could hardly wait to see the unit installed here and to get their fish into it,’’ says Crowe. ‘‘The entire community regards it as a real step forward, and there is every likelihood now that we will soon begin to see better prices for our lobster. We are hoping too that this unit will mean that prices will be a bit more predictable and won’t vary so much throughout the year. That is very important to us.’’

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

ISLAND LIVING

Preserving island culture By Séamus Ó Cnáimhsı́ GAELIC culture has a very strong oral tradition, through its songs and stories, knowledge has been passed from generation to generation by word of mouth. In days long gone, we had specialist storytellers who enjoyed high social status. The bards recited our songs, our epics and our poetry. Gifted youngsters spent years mastering their skills and the classics such as Lebor Gabála Érenn (The Book of the Taking of Ireland or The Book of Invasions) had to be learned word for word so that they could be passed on faithfully to listeners and to the next generation of story tellers. In this way, the bards were repositories for the vast knowledge that the Celtic culture accumulated over the ages. In modern times we have been more negligent about preserving such knowledge and

much of it has been lost for good. One group based on Inis Mór however has taken up the challenge of preserving island culture and has been gathering cultural heritage for years. Mná Fiontraı́ocha is based in the old primary school at Feár an Choirce on Inis Mór where they are busy collecting, cataloging and archiving taped interviews with islanders, school roll-books, placenames and photographs. They have amassed a wealth of irreplaceable knowledge about the island spanning generations, covering a multitude of topics such as folklore, traditional medicine, ghost stories and tales of strength and courage.

Data storing The group has embraced new technology with a passion; interviews with islanders are recorded on a professional minidisk system for optimal sound quality and then transferred to computer for cataloging and transcription. The sound and

index files are then stored in a database for easy searching and retrieval. Roll books have been catalogued and cross referenced with old school photographs for easy identification. The women have embarked on a place names collection project and are receiving mentoring from the well-known cartographer, Tim Robinson who is based in Roundstone. All of this time-consuming and meticulous work is carried out with energy and enthusiasm, and the results have already produced three books: Árainn - Cosáin an tSaol, Tuile’s Trá and Liam Ó Flairthearta 1896-1984. Work is now underway to make the entire archive available to the public through a variety of media. Meabh, Áine, Bairbre and Deirdre have received support under the NRDP to purchase software and an associated training programme delivered by the National University of

Mná Fiontraiocha, based on Inis Mór, has taken up the challenge of preserving island culture.

Ireland, Galway, for desktop publishing, databases and image manipulation. This will aid them greatly with archiving photographs, production of maps of the island and making

parts of the collection available via the internet. The women do not rest on their laurels and have recently secured funding from Iomairt Cholmcille, Údarás na Gael-

tachta and Galway County Council for an exchange visit to the islands of Islay and Tyree in Scotland. We wish them all the best with this vital work, long may it continue.

ESIN’s AGM and the end of the Inter-Island Exchange Project Report by Máire Uı́ Mhaoláin, CoE ESIN’S seventh AGM and final meeting of the Inter-Island Exchange Project took place on the Greek island of Hydra in late summer. Konstantinos Anastopoulous, Hydra’s mayor and Eleftherious Kechagioglou, president of the the Greek Small Islands Association welcomed us and launched a challenging programme of presentations and discussions. Dr Theocharis Tsoutsos outlined approaches to sustainable energy planning and vulnerable environmental regions under the RERINA Project. Discussion centred on developing European island policies and the need for more permanent support for small islands. This followed the strong message given to Europe and to national governments at a conference organised by ESIN earlier in the summer that small islands needed special recognition, being areas with particular needs and which experienced obstacles to development.

MEP pledge MEPs Seán Ó Neachtain, Brian Crowley and Marian Harkin supported this argument and promised they would support ESIN in Europe. Because islands are often part of larger regions, for example, Co Galway, they are not therefore entitled to structural funds as overall economic growth in the region or the county is taken into consideration. It is argued that special recognition cannot be given to islands as there are no available statistics; however it is inappopriate to gauge GDP or un-

ESIN members gather in Hydra, Greece, for final AGM.

Small islands such as Hydra in Greece are seeking better recognition from Brussels.

employment when populations are so small, production is neglible and there is depopulation because of the lack of choice in emloyment opportunities. A strong argument could also be made that it would make little difference to the EU, with its population of almost 500 million, if it provided special support to small islands, which represent a mere 0.1% of the population of the EU. The future of ESIN and plans to register it in one of the member countries was also discussed, and applications from France and Finland were tabled. Members of Comhdháil however were unable to support either application as it was felt that the information had not been provided in time. A decision was postponed until people had a chance to discuss the applications fully.

Hydra Island SITUATED in the Saronic Gulf in southern Greece, Hydra is four miles wide and 11 miles long. The island’s population lives around the harbour, which is shaped like a horseshoe and is surrounded by mountains and high cliffs. The streets are like stairs rising gradually up the cliffs, and are lined with whitewashed houses on either side. There are no cars on the island; donkeys and mules are the local transport. The islanders are proud that they can manage to survive without cars although there are over 3,000 people on the island. Another aspect of the island’s heritage is its reputation for fishing sponges. You can find out more about Hydra by visiting www.hydra.gr. The Interreg project is coming to a close after three years of events in which 600 people participated. We certainly have more information now about developments on the islands, on how to influence European policy, and

the capacity of the islands that took part in the project. We have also started to put together European island policies. It is likely that an application will be made to another European Programme next year to build on the work done to date.

Capturing and learning from a force of nature Report by Séamus Ó Cnáimhsı́ TRAVELLING at a speed of 2,287 mph, 239,000 miles above the earth, the moon has a profound influence on many aspects of our environment and daily lives. While many of us are consciously unaware of its passage far above our heads, its power and effects can be seen in the ebb and flow of the ocean as the tide makes its journey in and out twice daily. This amazing force of nature can be difficult to comprehend; to put it in perspective: consider the weight of a bucket of water, now imagine the energy needed to hold back the volume of water around our coast for six hours! The Marine Institute is currently deploying a series of automated

tide gauge devices that will measure and record real-time tide data from around the coast and the information will be published on the Irish Tides web site at www.irishtides.ie for use by commercial, leisure, state agencies, researchers and the general public. The devices comprise a tide height sensor accurate to less than 1cm coupled to a GSM modem transmitter that utilises the mobile phone network to send the tide data back to a central computer for processing. Suitable sites have been selected to be a part of the tide monitoring network. These include a number of islands including Inis Mór (Kilronan Harbour is currently live), Clare Island, Árainn Mhór and Thoraı́.

Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology Applied Research Enhancement

Shellfish Technology Centre Funded by Enterprise Ireland to provide innovative research and development support to the Irish shellfish industry Contact point: Dr. M. Robinson 091 742430 (Martin.Robinson@gmit.ie) Funded by the Irish Government and part-financed by the European Union under the National Development Plan 2007-2013

EUROPEAN UNION STRUCTURAL FUNDS

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

ISLAND LIVING

Pioneering organic salmon

A new day dawns over Clare Island sea farm.

Photos: S Fennelly

Clare Island lies at the mouth of Clew Bay, just 6km off the Mayo coast and a 30-minute ferry ride from Roonagh pier. After crossing the channel you enter the harbour, protected by a new pier that was built over the last three years at a cost of €15m. The island has a population of 138 people, and is home for the islanders who work for Clare Island Seafarm — the most exposed salmon farm in the world. They have pioneered organic salmon farming in the Atlantic Ocean, writes Shay Fennelly IN 1987 a Norwegian company established the farm, assisted by many islanders who returned from Britain. Today, the farm employs ten islanders (two of whom are company directors) who maintain the seacages and feed the salmon on a daily basis. One islander, Humphrey O’Leary, now the farm foreman, was working in a British welding company when he got the call to come back to the island for work. ‘‘The return of some islanders and their friends to work on the salmon farm has helped slow the gradually declining island population, which had 150 people in 1987. One of the most significant impacts of this has been to swell the island primary school with 14 of its 21 pupils. This has helped the school remain a two-teacher school for the last three years, and necessitated the addition of an extension.’’ Clare Island Seafarms is of huge importance to the economy of the island where sheep farming, tourism and fishing are the only other revenue earning activities. It has also bought job creation benefit to nearby Achill Island where the mainland base is located, employing 30 people. In addition, the organic salmon feed is manufactured by

Skretting in their feed mill factory in Westport and is transported by local vessels to the farm sites. Three boats from Clare Island bring the feed to the seacages and carry out all service work, ie cage and mooring maintenance. Equipment has to be checked weekly by scuba divers to ensure the stability of the seafarm in this challenging site, especially before the winter storms begin. From November to February

the islanders’ seafaring skills come into their own when faced with wave heights of up to 6 metres, sometimes for several days. In severe winter weather, the island is often cut off from the mainland for a week or more. The seafarm plays its part in maintaining a viable population on Clare Island and sponsors the annual island regatta. The island’s profile and public relations image is also heightened through the sale of farmed

salmon under the Clare Island Organic Salmon brand in Ireland, France, Belgium, Britain, Germany, the US and Japan.

Organic production Farm manager Liam Doherty from Fanad, Co Donegal, explained the annual production work cycle. ‘‘In February, the salmon eggs are hatched in an organic hatchery inland. One million salmon smolts weighing between 70-80g are delivered to

the seacages in February, March and April. The fish are delivered in three separate batches to stagger production. A helicopter transports the smolts on the final leg of their journey from Roonagh pier to eight smolt cages located at the most exposed site on the east side of the island.’’ The large flexible hexagonal seacages, which are made by Bridgestone, are moored in 2730 metres of water and are swept by a two knot tidal

Organic certification-what does it mean? IN 1996 the farm was certified organic by several independent agencies including Naturland Verband (Germany), the Irish Organic Farmers & Growers Association (IOFGA), Bio Suisse (Switzerland) and Qualité France (France) — AB. The salmon are reared in accordance with strict standards set out by these agencies. The farm, its functions and the surrounding environment are fully audited annually to ensure that the highest organic standards are maintained. The fish are nourished with

a diet containing only natural and organic ingredients from sustainable sources and are free from GMOs. The fish are reared in cube-shaped nets hanging below large sea cages that allow them to follow their natural shoaling behaviour, and therefore control their proximity to other salmon, in line with organic farming concepts. The natural environment provided by Clare Island Seafarm offers a healthy environment for the salmon to thrive. Throughout their life span, the salmon swim the equivalent of 23,000 km. As a result, the

flesh has a firm muscle texture, offering consumers an excellent eating experience. The pink colour of salmon is acquired naturally in the wild from the crustaceans they eat. This is replicated by the presence of Phaffia — a natural yeast in the organic salmon feed. The high tidal exchange rates around Clare Island ensure that oceanic water continually flushes through the seacages, thus avoiding the build up of parasites or pollutants. Fishmeal and fish oil are partly replaced by vegetable ingredients. The fishmeal is

from a sustainable source derived from fresh fish trimmings that are processed for human consumption, such as mackerel. Clare Island Seafarm is producing organic salmon to the highest international seafood standards and also offers consumers complete traceability from the farm to the end user. With an increasing demand for seafood, Clare Island Seafarm’s niche market producing organic salmon to Europe, the US and the Far East looks promising.

stream every six hours. The salmon spend eighteen months in the sea before reaching market size at an average weight of 4-5kg. The fish are graded once, 12 months later, the following April. After at least 18 months, the fish reach market size and are harvested. The larger fish are then ongrown in 12 seacages in the lee of Portlea Island at a water depth of 27 metres and sheltered from south-west and westerly winds. Since 2004 the farm has been owned by Marine Harvest — a Donegal-based company that is part of the largest salmon farming company in the world who produce one-third of farmed salmon and trout worldwide. The company is present in 20 countries and has a workforce of 9,000. The Clare Island seafarm produces almost 2,500 tonnes of farmed salmon annually, which are harvested 52 weeks per year. Continuity of supply has proved a very important factor to meet customer demand and the systems in place enable them to provide this service. Marine Harvest Ireland has over 30 years of experience in aquaculture, which has proven invaluable in managing the challenges of this exposed Atlantic site.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

ISLAND LIVING

farming on Clare Island

A helicopter transports the smolts from Roonagh pier to eight smolt cages located at the most exposed site on the east side of the island.

The farmed salmon are grown off Clare island but the fish are packed for export in Fanad in Donegal.

Organic Salmon farming has been pioneered at our Clare Island Seafarm. This is one of the worlds most exposed sea farms, located in the lee of Clare Island, in the raging pristine Atlantic Ocean. These Irish Atlantic waters are classed as 1A in quality...the best there is. In this exceptional environment Clare Island Organic Salmon thrive, offering a truely distinct and beautiful eating experience, which is valued by consumers from across the globe. We at Clare Island are dedicated to rearing our Organic Salmon in accordance with the highest organic and quality standards. We endeavour to provide our customers with the freshest best quality product. It is the experience and commitment of the team at Clare Island that drives this ambition. Marine Harvest Ireland, Kindrum, Fanad, Letterkenny, County Donegal, Ireland. Sales Office: 00353 74 9192820 Email: clareislandsalmon@marineharvest.com A Marine Harvest Product Certified by:

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

FRESHWATER ANGLING

* An artificial `scented' sandeel proved succesful for seatrout.

* A mullet caught on the fly.

Photo: B Connolly

* The gadget Erne seatrout fly.

* The Parson Tom Erne Seatrout fly.

* The `Baltic special' seatrout fly

Photo: E Morrow

* Plug bait resembles a sprat; even gulls go for it.

Photo: E. Morrow

* Fly fishing at the foot of sand dunes on the Erne Estuary.

* Five fine Erne Estuary finnock.

Photo: MF Murphy

Photo: E Morrow

End of season angling on Erne Estuary can be a prized possession SEATROUT catches in the Erne Estuary near Ballyshannon mostly consist of fish between 8oz and just over 1lb, but fish between 2lbs and 4lbs are also regularly caught. Seemingly unaffected by the slump in seatrout populations in the late 1980s and 1990s, experienced in some other seatrout fisheries, the Erne Estuary fished as normal; however there are stories told by elderly anglers that for one or two seasons just after the WWII the seatrout seemed to have disappeared from the channel, as the estuary is known, writes Brendan Connolly.

Photo: B Connolly

Happily the seatrout returned, and continue to keep anglers occupied one season after another. But, each year as September approaches, thoughts turn to the last day of the season, when a group of anglers usually go fishing to compete for a small

prize as consolation for having to hang up the fly rod until the following season. The rules of this private competition however are the subject of ongoing discussions. Is the prize for the heaviest bag, biggest fish, or most fish? And if all anglers land the same number of seatrout, is the angler who also caught a mackerel the winner? `White smoke' on rules After years of argument, the rules have been amended to exclude mackerel and pollack, even if they are caught on a fly rod. Of course, not everyone agrees that these species were part of the competition in the first place. Nevertheless, such claims rise certain competitors, which can be as entertaining as rising a seatrout. Methods of seatrout fishing on the channel include trolling

and spinning with lures and natural sand eels; however fly fishing with Ballyshannon's famous Rogan's Erne seatrout fly patterns is perhaps the more interesting way of fishing here. The simple but lethal `gadget' and the flamboyant `Parson Tom' are favourities, along with the more widely known `Baltic Special'. On the last day of the 2007 season, all methods were used by our group of anglers. As low tide approached, the boats circled each other, trolling natural sand eels, small plug baits and flies. Gaining the edge As one boat wasn't catching anything, another was boasting seatrout caught and lost. This information was viewed with suspicion; `psyching out the opposition' is traditional on the last day of the season competition. A number of hot spots were

tried, such as close to the surf in the mouth of the river, with the boats rising and falling in the swell coming in from the sea, and also further up the estuary, trolling close to the edges of the sand banks in the calmer waters. Flies were changed, and tattered sand eels were replaced with new ones. Firm resolutions were taken to replace blunt old triple hooks on lures with new sharp ones. Once in a while a rod tip jerked, but no fish was hooked. As the tide turned and the water from Donegal Bay started to flow into the channel, it was time to pull the boats ashore and fly fish wading in the shallow water. To watch a fly being cast into tidal waters amongst sandbanks against a backdrop of high sand dunes, instead of on the banks of a river or lake, is incongruous when you see it for the first time.

Arrows of blue and silver The estuary serves as a nursery for juvenile fish and shrimp, and seatrout chase after them in lightning fast bursts of speed. Arrows of blue and silver slice through the water, boiling at the surface or jumping clear out of the water in pursuit of sprat, then flicking them into the air. The seatrout flies are retrieved relatively fast and imitate these fleeing shrimp and sprat. One angler cast his flies into a flow caused by the incoming tide and felt a hard take and struck. Strong jerks indicated that this was more than a seatrout of a pound or so. Determined surges stripped the line from the reel, and a silver flash below the surface raised expectations that this could be a seatrout of more than two pounds.

Mighty mullet Again and again the fish plunged into the deep gully between the sandbanks. Fifteen minutes or more went by before the fish could be turned and directed into the shallower water at the feet of the angler where it could not dive. As the fish was walked onto the sand, it became clear that this was not a seatrout, but a mullet of about 2lbs. Once more the discussions started; the other boat had been truthful and had caught a number of seatrout, the evidence was there to be seen. But to catch a mullet on a fly rod is an unusual event (it also was the heaviest fish caught that day). In addition to this, mullet had not been specifically excluded from the competition. So, who was the winner? On the last day of the seatrout season should mullet count?

Photo: E Morrow

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INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

AQUACULTURE NEWS

* Back row: Robert Love, dive supervisor, and Tim McClare, research vessel captain. Front row: Randy Whisler, research engineer, Gita George, deck technician, Richard Langan, Dave Millard, Mike Murphy and Michael Chambers, senior project manager.

Sub-surface longline culture COASTAL sheltered waters in Ireland available to farmers to expand the mussel industry are becoming increasingly limited, and the industry is now looking to more exposed waters at the edge of these sheltered waters,

write Dave Millard, BIM, Ger Lynch, Westpoint Shellfish Ltd and Mike Murphy, Castletownbere.

* Deck crane plus open block.

* Ger with float plus 7mm nylon tie.

One possible method is to fully submerge the entire cultivation system, and so we headed to the University of New Hampshire Ocean Aquaculture Project to talk to Dr Richard Langan (http://amac.unh.edu). They operate a 12-hectare demonstration site (Shoals 42056.568'N, 070037.957'W), 10 km from shore in the waters of the Gulf of Maine, USA. Water depth is 52m and the site is fully exposed, experiencing wave heights of 9m during severe storms. In 1999 the university installed two submerged longlines on which they have grown through seven cohorts of mussels. These longlines are still on

* Extra floatation being added.

site, albeit with different corner floats and anchors, and are now being used by a commercial grower who is currently developing another site at Boars Head where 10 lines have been installed. The local mussel industry is still in its infancy due in part to a lack of available sheltered sites. The predominant fishing activity is a thriving lobster fishery.

Visually appealing

This type of sub-sea mussel farming is visually appealing, given that each mussel line only has three small marker buoys Ă? one for each anchor and one attached to the middle of the line. Each longline is held by one 2,000kg granite block at each end; to this a 28mm polysteel rope is attached directly (no chain used), rising sharply at approximately 450 to the headline, also made from 28mm polysteel. At this point is a cluster of six floats and from here the

headline travels 130m horizontally until it meets the other six floats and then down to the second mooring block. The headlines are maintained at approximately 10m, +/- 3m, as weight and buoyancy is added. They try to keep the lines deeper in winter when the weather is bad and the water column well mixed, whilst higher in summer to achieve chlorophyll maximums. Initially, a continuous leaded collector rope, or continuous unleaded cotton wrapped, mussel socked rope, is attached to the headline using a 2m to 4m length of looped 7mm nylon. One long loop of mussel rope is attached, followed by one short length. Each loop is attached 1m apart and, at this stage, no extra floatation is added.

no reduction in growth rate. As these seeded lines grow, floatation is added ending up close to harvest (currently approximately 10T) with about 60 floats attached to the headline. The geometry of the line can be assessed using an echo depthsounder. The floats used are 40cm diameter, thick-walled, rotationally molded plastic buoys, capable of submersion to 70m, and costing roughly 6 each. To access the line, the centre marking buoy line is hauled up and the headline placed on a `star wheel' forward and aft. Time to harvest on site was 12 to 14 months and typical meat yields could be as high as 60% (meat yields are calculated differently whereby the in-shell water is eliminated prior to weighing and more likely equate to 40% to 45%). Post spawning, mussels had a

For seed collection, the long loops extend 7m for maximum spat-fall, whereas for grow-out, the ropes can extend 12m with

PHOTOS: G Lynch & R Langan

Seed collection

* Simulation of sub-surface line.

INSHORE IRELAND

November 2007

AQUACULTURE NEWS

* Hydraulic forward starwheel.

* Aft starwheel.

* Flume tank.

Mussel farms in

* Headline, radar reflector and anchor mark.

* Lobster pot mark.

in New Hampshire meat yield of approximately 30% to 35%. Weak shells are often flagged as a problem for mussels grown submerged offshore; however, this did not seem to be the case here, as the shells were thin but not excessively so. The domestic market demand is good, with a harvest price of 1,800/tonne. The cost to construct and deploy each basic line with on-growing rope and buoys as extra is roughly 1,850. The major expense is a suitable boat Ă? low to the water so as not to drag the lines when anchored alongside; large enough to carry heavy loads and haul lines from depth and yet fast enough to travel to these offshore sites. Next step

The team is now concentrating on testing underwater 3finfish cages, one of 3000m with 45,0003 cod and another of 600m , which have been modified to include a flat bottom to accommodate halibut. There are3 plans to install a third 100m

* Loop attached to longline.

(OCAT) cage, designed to be auto submersible. They use a 20 tonnes capacity feeder that can feed the four cages at once and also acts as a platform for remote monitoring. Jud DeCew, a research engineer also with UNH, showed us some versatile finite element analysis models, wherein they could build cage systems or mussel longlines, assign properties to the structures in terms of weight, strength, etc, and then subject them to various sea states, water velocities, etc, to determine how the cages/longlines perform. He then demonstrated graphically the difference between a surface mussel longline and a sub-surface one. Two interesting points were the snapping of the lowest part of the surface line mussel sock and also the snap at the sheltered end of the longline. In comparison, the same sea state had a much reduced effect on a submerged line, being a more lazy motion. Jud and Richard also explained the requirements for short longlines and steep moor-

ing lines (450) to assist in maintaining the underwater geometry. It was also pointed out that due to the difficulty of getting parallel mussel lines at the same depth, submerged longlines should not be moored closer than half the depth of the water, so that parallel lines and their ongrowing ropes would not tangle. Next we were shown their flume tanks, where they ground-truth the information learned using scale models of the systems planned for deployment offshore. The benefits of these subsurface lines include reduced risk of crop loss, reduced conflict with other users in terms of visual impact and potential navigational hazards, combined with excellent growth. There are very few sheltered sites now available, and for the Irish mussel industry to expand beyond essential handling improvements, it must move out into more exposed waters. This technology appears to be well suited to this challenge.

* Hauling the headline.

Ireland MOST mussel farms in Ireland use a surface 100m to 200m double headrope longline attached directly to floats, each with a buoyancy of between 200kg and 400kg. At more exposed sites, farmers typically use 200m single headrope longline, submerged to approximately 2m to 4m attached, again, to surface floats, each with a buoyancy of 220kg. BIM has been working with Westpoint Shellfish Ltd at a very exposed site in Kenmare Bay, working with `smartfarm' longlines, a surface floating system developed in Norway with which BIM ran trials in a number of locations. Unfortunately, this system failed to weather the on-site rigours of this past winter's storms (12m swells recorded) when supporting a full crop of mussels. However, a lot was learned about spat fall (down to 17m and the possibility of winter spat), spring mooring systems and phenomenal mussel meat yield (>45%). Westpoint Shellfish is still convinced that a system will be found to succeed in this type of location.

* Short grow-out loop.

* On site feed buoy plus mussel anchor mark to the left.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

AQUACULTURE NEWS

Aquaculture report notes fall in production but increase in value STATUS of Irish Aquaculture 2006 — the annual review of trends in the production, employment, export and market statistics for the aquaculure industry notes that despite an 8% fall in total production from 62,838 tonnes in 2005 to 57,422 tonnes in 2006 — the overall value increased 13% from €110m to €125m. And while total shellfish production in the period fell 2,758 tonnes to 44,696 tonnes, and finfish by 2,658 tonnes to

12,726 tonnes, the cummulative sales value increased. For shellfish, market value rose by over €15m — up 30% — while the figure for finfish was down marginally by 0.2% to €61.4m. Breaking it down by species, the report notes that of the 37,543 tonnes of mussels produced, 23,583 tonnes were bottom-grown, and 13,960 tonnes were the rope-grown variety. Of the latter, 9,660 tonnes were sold in the marketplace, while

4,300 tonnes were re-laid as bottom mussel seed.

Static production A welcome 12% increase in production brought the 2006 Gigas oyster harvest to 6,511 tonnes and a value of €2.5m — up 21%. The native oyster harvest, according to the report, was ‘relatively static’ at 360 tonnes. For clam producers however, the news was better according

to the report. They enjoyed a 52% jump in production to 245 tonnes. This was reflected too in the harvest value which, the report notes, rose by 62.7% to €1.38m. Turning to salmon and trout, the report states that ‘mortalities during the summer period’ — mainly caused by Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis and various gill diseases — dampened earlier optimism in the sector that the 2006 harvest would see a significant rise.

Instead, the 11,174 tonnes reflected an 18% drop in production.

Exceptional price Nevertheless, the report says that ‘the exceptional price per tonne achieved in 2006 lessened the impact of the decline in volume production, yielding a total value for salmon produced of €52.7m, 4% less than that achieved in 2005.’ Slightly better results were

seen in the freshwater rainbow trout sector, with production up 8% from 897 tonnes in 2005 to 970 tonnes in 2006. However, this positive trend was not paralleled however in the seareared rainbow sector, which saw a decline of 23% in the harvest to 546 tonnes. Nevertheless here too, despite the drop in production, better marketplace prices saw a 55.9% rise in sales value to €4,476 per tonne.

Planet Aqua is calling on all primary 5th and 6th class teachers to become part of the largest single aquatic education project in Ireland.

All-Ireland drive to promote aquatic education PLANET Aqua, an initiative by AquaTT — an international foundation that provides project management and training services to support sustainable development of Europe’s aquatic resources — is calling on all primary 5th and 6th class teachers to become part of the largest single aquatic education project in Ireland. The initiative includes a teacher’s manual (delivered to all English speaking national primary schools last January), an interactive website and pilot exhibitions that help teachers to cover the SESE Science curriculum using aquatic examples.

According to Olivia Daly, Planet Aqua coordinator, the manual covers a range of topics from making your own iceberg to investigating how the water cycle works.

Practical activities ‘‘From practical activities to open-ended investigations, there are a variety of approaches and methodologies in the Planet Aqua manual that the teacher can incorporate into their lesson plan. These approaches help accommodate different learning styles of students. Using the manual, teachers will find it easier to plan and select units of work to ensure that students have access

to key scientific concepts. ‘‘Planet Aqua can be used as an effective science programme to encourage students to work scientifically — questioning, observing, predicting, investigating and recording,’’ Olivia said. Planet Aqua is now looking for feedback and all completed surveys returned by Friday 7 December will be entered into a free draw for a digital camera. Surveys are available at www.planetaqua.ie or contact Olivia Daly: olivia@aquatt.ie or tel: 01-6449008. All received answers will be used to further develop and advance Planet Aqua.

The Planet Aqua initiative endeavours to inspire young people to appreciate the importance of conserving and preserving the planet’s water habitats and resources, and aims to encourage children to minimise their individual ecological footprint. A collaborative effort was made between like-minded groups. Resources and support was obtained from primary school teachers, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA), the Primary Curriculum Support Programme (PCSP), the National Centre for Technology in Education (NCTE) as well as Forfás, the Marine Institute, BIM and the EPA.

INSHORE IRELAND

November 2007

AQUACULTURE NEWS

Mulroy Bay records best scallop spat fall for a decade * Sorting system for collectors on floating raft.

By Jerry Gallagher, Northwest Shellfish MULROY Bay is well known for being one of the best sites in Europe for scallop spat ( ) collection or king scallop as it is commonly known. Since the introduction of TBT based anti-foulants in the early 1980s, spat settlements have been at best sporadic, with low numbers per collector or in some year's non existent. Several attempts have been made to get an industry developed in Ireland; however with insecurity of an annual reliable spat supply, very little has been achieved with the exception of North West Shellfish Ltd (NWS), which has been producing scallop in Mulroy Bay since 1992. This year the company has succeeded in producing a good spat fall due to a combination of initiatives: pectin

maximus

Transfer of brood stock for spawning to best larvae retention areas within the bay Plankton monitoring to identify scallop larvae and their various stages of maturation Deployment of 110,000 spat collectors to coincide with optimum spat settlement.

The process

The production cycle includes collection of spat in artificial collectors during summer months; harvesting in autumn and placement in nursery systems; stacking trays and lantern nets suspended on long lines and reseeded onto the seabed when they reach a certain size. One or two years later they

are then harvested at approximately six years of age by SCUBA diving, which is the only method accepted under licence. This method of harvest ? even though more expensive ? is environmentally-friendly, and the product commands a higher price as it is clean and has an extended shelf-life compared with dredged scallops, which are normally silted inside and only suitable for processing. Despite good scallop spat settlement on collectors, an abundance of other marine organisms have also settled, creating major problems at sorting time.

Dedicated spat sorter

This has been somewhat alleviated by a dedicated spat sorter imported from Canada by BIM, which has already proven its worth. Without this machine, much of the spat would have been lost, as they attach on to the outside of the collectors and detach before they can be handled and sorted manually. Nevertheless, the sorter does an excellent job with very small spat when limited fouling is present. This year NWS also embarked on a project to reduce nursery time in suspended scallop spat that were seeded on the seabed for grow out. Testing proved successful as nursery time was reduced from 20 months to ten months. This is a significant step forward as it means that nursery equipment is available for next season's spat and it also reduces labour, cleaning and thinning of spat (juveniles) in suspension.

* Harvesting collectors for sorting.

The programme concentrated on dedicated predator control and optimum density of spat in nursery areas so that maximum growth could be achieved in the proposed time frame. All in all, the future of the scallop aquaculture industry has great potential as there are very few bays around the coast where they are not indigenous to, and with emphasis now on managed inshore fisheries. This species is an ideal candidate for close cooperation between aquaculture and inshore fisheries; however several obstacles must be overcome before full potential can be realised, such as the introduction of the seed capital fund as recommended in the `Crawley Report' for new species. Funding is necessary because the scallop production cycle from spat to market is four to six years, which is a deterrent for conventional lending institutions. Also, a dedicated scallop spat hatchery needs to be operating annually because the dependence of an industry on one source of seed should it be Mulroy Bay or hatchery produced is always going to be restrictive.

Single supply

Currently there is no other seed supply available outside of Mulroy Bay, and history has told us that sporadic spat production does not generate enough confidence for an industry to invest in. Therefore, hatcheries and wild collection would compliment each other as they do with other aquaculture industries worldwide.

IFA Aquaculture meets new Ministers ON the day government agreed to transfer powers for aquaculture licencing and policy to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, IFA Aquaculture met with Minister Mary Coughlan and Minister of State John Browne to discuss the priorities for the farmed seafood sector. Irish Salmon Growers' Association chair Damien OÂ Ceallach aÂ i n, Ir i s h She ll f i s h Association chair Flor Harrington and IFA Aquaculture executive secretary Richie Flynn told the Ministers they ``warmly welcomed'' the transfer and said that the first task had to be the upgrading of service and delivery to producers by the licencing division and removal of the backlog of licence appli-

* Pictured in Agriculture House are (l-r) Flor Harrington, ISA Chairman; Minister John Browne TD; Minister Mary Coughlan; Richie Flynn, IFA Aquaculture and Damien O'CellachaÂin, ISGA Chairman.

cations and renewals. IFA Aquaculture has clearly outlined the need for industry and the Department to work together to develop a more transparent, responsive and customer focused licencing system based on a Charter of Rights for

. Ministers Coughlan and Browne agreed that the licensing issue was a priority and that resources would have to be committed to improve the system to ensure the best quality of service. Aquaculture Producers

That said, if this year's achievements can be repeated annually, the scallop industry would soon be right up there with all the other cultured moluscan species in terms of revenue general as it is a high value product. At present, markets for scallop through out Europe are buoyant with dive harvested scallop in shell fetching around 6/kg first sale value. It is also one of the most sought after shellfish species on the domestic market where there is huge potential for increased sales as demand for fresh scallop outstrips supply.

* About 2,000 spat in a plastic tray.

Photos: Northwest Shellfish

* New spat sorter imported from Canada by BIM.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

AQUACULTURE NEWS

Notice-board . . Notice-board. . Licensing crisis must be priority for new Ministers IFA

Aquaculture's

sustained

campaign for a reform of the

back

track

soon

solve this embarrassing situation

possible.

and

show

real

licensing system has been vin-

The applications are a mix of

commitment to the aquaculture

dicated by the shocking revela-

renewals, reviews and new ap-

sector. A plan for dealing with

tion

plications by producers, which

the backlog must be presented

effectively have been disappear-

as soon as possible, and we

launched at the recent Aqua-

ing into a black hole for three

must get to a position where we

culture Forum that there was a

years.

can reassure our members that

Status of Irish A q u a c u l t u re 2 0 0 6 r e p o r t in

the

very

real action is taking place be-

tions lodged with the Depart-

hostile environment for invest-

hind the scenes on licensing,''

ment by the end of December

ment and entrpreneurship, and

he added.

2006.

has left producers feeling ex-

At the first meeting between

tremely disillusioned and dis-

the chairmen of ISGA and ISA

log that has been allowed to

a pp oi nt e d

with

build up is a terrible reflection

Ministers

for

backlog of 262 licence applica-

The sheer scale of the back-

the

system

and

the

industry. IFA wants to see rapid action in

this

area,

with

maximum

resources being committed to getting

the

licensing

system

``This

has

created

with and

s u c ce s s i v e

their

Ministers

Coughlan

and

promises

Browne, licensing was the num-

sector,''

ber one issue on the agenda,

Richie Flynn, IFA Aquaculture

``and it will continue to be until

executive secretary, told

producers start to see real pro-

support

for

the

Ireland.

Inshore

gress made on processing and

``It is now time for Ministers Coughlan and Browne to re-

issuing licences right around the coast,'' he said.

Good practice guide meetings ISA

Protection Agency and Marine

Oyster Workshop in Sligo in

Institute, in particular. Accord-

difficult to achieve `A' status,

September saw the first discus-

ing to Richie Flynn, IFA, the

which is why ISA concentrated

sion with industry on the new

SFPA and the other agencies

minds on cleaning up bays.

THE

very

successful

Microbiological Good Practice Guide.

Classification

for the classification of shellfish areas from 2008, and the assois

anxious

fully

that

every

ISA

* BIM has responded to an ISGA request for a special course for farm divers with a series of regional training sessions given by Dr Susan Steele. At the recent course in Galway were (from left): J. Ruddy, Celtic Atlantic Salmon; P.J. Addley, D. Barrett Muirachmhannai Teo; A. Ryan, Celtic Atlantic Salmon; M. O'Ceallachain, J. Barrett, Mhuir Gheal Teo; M. Joyce, N. Lee, S. Joyce, Muirachmhannai, and Susan Steele, BIM.

Fish health code of practice

the

But there is a measure of payback in terms of follow-up

members

are

provision

sanitary

surveys

being encouraged to read the

for every bay and the continua-

draft guide and to attend the

tion of the 10% tolerance level

meetings

for over-limit results in both A

organised

their

region. ``The new system will have a real effect on people's livelihoods and it is vital that every

implications and to interrogate

shellfish producer understands

those

imple-

how their classification will be

menting it Ă? the Sea Fisheries

arrived at under the new rules.

the new Fish Health Directive coming

The code will be accompanied by a `live'

into force in 2008, IFA Aquaculture has been

Fish Health Handbook detailing the operation

working closely with the Marine Institute and

of the various sections of the code according to

the Fish and Shellfish Health Advisory Com-

best veterinary advice and legal requirements.

mittee on drafting a new national Fish Health

The

Code of Practice.

regularly according to changing legislation,

WITH

action when spikes occur Ă? the

opportunity to understand the for

much

the

shellfish operator is given the

responsible

process

ISA requested. all

make

that

committed'

consultation And

This guide will form the basis

ciation

`are

will

SPECIAL COURSE FOR FARM DIVERS

The code will be a robust and comprehensive guide for finfish farmers on the agreed

and B classifications.

Regional meetings:

* 30 October . . . . Carlingford * 20 November . . . Waterford * 22 November . . . Glengarrif * 12 December . . . . . . Galway

handbook

experience,

designed

availability

updated

treatments,

new

research, etc.

national priorities to ensure the health and

The final draft of the code will be discussed

welfare of the national stock. The code will

by ISGA members at meetings in October and

encompass the best practices and principles of

November and distributed to all finfish produ-

international fish health as well as the FEAP

cers for comment by IFA Aquaculture with a

Code of Practice for Responsible Fish Farming

view to launching it on a trial one-year basis in

and will be adopted by industry as one.

2008.

`Charter of Rights' for aquaculture producers Aquaculture and the De-

ensure a level playing pitch for

Department officials so that the

should

partment of Agriculture, Fish-

all applicants in terms of in-

exact position of an application

application. In return, industry

eries and Food's Coastal Zone

formation,

will be clear to everyone in-

should commit to ensuring that

Administration

Department

volved.

all the relevant paperwork is

IFA

FOR SALE

Division

are

dealing and

with

the

transparency

According to Richie Flynn,

assigned

each

filed with the application and to

continuing to work together to

of the system. Responsibilities

produce a `Charter of Rights for

Aquaculture Producers', focus-

Department in the process of

contain

2007 Scallop Spat

ing specifically on the rights of

applying for a new licence or a

welcome initiatives.

applicants

li-

renewal or review will be cen-

``For instance, any delays in

produced in Mulroy Bay, Co. Donegal with complete disease free status Any quantities

cences and to improve the over-

tral to the charter, and it will be

following the lodgment of an

Aquaculture's salmon, trout and

all process of application.

accompanied by a checklist for

application

use by both the applicant and

explained

for

aquaculture

The aim of the charter is to

both

applicants

and

the

IFA,

the

final

some

charter

innovative

and

respond quickly to requests for further information,'' he said. The final draft will be put to the

governing

bodies

IFA

clearly

shellfish organisations for ap-

case

officer

proval.

should and

should

Euro parliament hearing on aquaculture A large turnout of MEPs, member-state representatives, Commission officials and representatives of the Portuguese presidency attended a special hearing

the

European

Parliament

entitled

`European Aquaculture: Potential For Development' in Brussels last October. Chaired by Scottish MEP Struan Stevenson, the event heard a range of industry speakers selected by

the

Federation

Producers

(FEAP)

Producers

Association

European

and

the

Aquaculture

European

(EMPA)

talk

Mollusc

about

the

opportunities and obstacles for development of

For details contact: Jerry Gallagher North West Shell Fish Upper Carrick, Carrigart, Letterkenny Co. Donegal, Ireland Tel: 0035386 8092246 Fax: 0749155195 northwestshellfish@eircom.net

the sector in Europe. Richie

Flynn

spoke

the

constraints

development and the need for more streamlined legislation and less bureaucracy for ordinary fish farmers. ``The European Commission's aquaculture strategy, currently being drafted, should encourage competitiveness

and

economic

sustainability

through pro-active measures to encourage markets, develop production, improve licensing systems and assure compatibility between aquaculture development and environmental legislation,'' he said.

* Pictured following the EU Parliament hearing on the Future of Sustainable

Aquaculture were (back, from left): Brian Thomsen, Danish Aquaculture Association; Jean Claude Cueff, Head of Aquaculture Unit, European Commission; Richie Flynn, IFA Aquaculture; Courtney Hough, Federation of European Aquaculture Producers; Lazslo Varadi, Hungarian Fish Farmers Association. Front: Phillipe Morrillon MEP, chair of the EU Parliament Fisheries Committee; Struan Stevenson MEP, Aquaculture Hearing Chairman; Elspeth Atwoll MEP, Aquaculture Hearing Rapporteur; Despina Symons, European Bureau For Conservation & Development; Julie Diminant, European Mollusc Producers Association.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

AQUACULTURE NEWS

A few members of Mulroy CLAMS with Robert McCabe doing chart work

Rope Mussels in Mulroy Bay

Navigational plans underway for two CLAMS groups AQUACULTURE Initiative (AI) is being assisted by Captain Robert McCabe, Commissioners of Irish lights, to oversee navigational plans for two Donegal-based CLAMS groups at Mulroy Bay Trawbreaga Bay. According to Louise Collins of AI, navigation is important on health and safety grounds for

all users of the bay, including jet skiers, boating enthusiasts, windsurfers, sea anglers, inshore fishermen and swimmers. ‘‘Ongoing consultation with the marine surveyors’ office and the Department of Transport and Marine is underway, to agree the overall layout of the plan and positioning of the markers and buoys. These na-

vigational plans will involve deployment of special yellow aquaculture marker poles and yellow buoys marking aquaculture areas,’’ she told Inshore Ireland. Mulroy Bay has a greater number of licensed sites and contains a variety of aquaculture farms including salmon, mussels, oysters, and scallops

Mulroy CLAMS secures €325,000 for real time monitoring in Co Donegal AFTER many months of negotiation with Donegal County Council, the Mulroy Bay CLAMS group has secured €325,000 from the authority to carry out real time monitoring (RTM), during construction of the largest bridge to be built in Donegal. DCC has appointed the Naasbased company OTT Hydrometry to undertake the monitoring programme under the control and supervision of the RPS Group, who are also responsible for the detailed design and construction supervision for the main bridge contract. Construction of the 342m bridge, which began in March 2007 and is due for completion in mid 2009, will connect the Rosguill and Fanad Peninsulas. Its primary goal is to provide substantial reduction in journey time between the two peninsulas. This will be the third element

of DCC’s ‘Peninsula Hopping Project’; the slipways and ferry links at Rathmullan, Buncrana and Greencastle are already completed. Mulroy Bay is an important aquaculture location for the production of salmon, rope mussels, scallops and oysters that is valued in excess of €20 million. The bay is also the major site for scallop seed collection in Ireland, and is the largest natural settlement of scallop spat fall in Europe. It was designated as a candidate for Special Area of Conservation in 2001 and is a Class A bay. According to Louise Collins of Aquaculture Initiative (AI), the RTM will take place at 15minute intervals on a 24-hour basis in four locations. The sensors will measure turbidity, dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll, salinity and current velocity. ‘‘If an alarm condition oc-

Virtual image of the completed bridge.

curs, i.e. trigger levels are reached, farmers and the DCC will be immediately notified by text message, and thereby will be able to take the appropriate action.’’ All monitoring results will be accessible via a website so that stakeholders can keep fully informed of progress. Monthly stakeholder meetings are also planned with all interested parties. ‘‘This monitoring project is invaluable for protecting the producers of Mulroy Bay as well protecting the unique marine ecology. ‘‘It also underpins DCC’s commitment to protecting the wider water environment as demonstrated through its lead role in the implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive in Ireland. ‘‘The CLAMS group is delighted that DCC has invested in this technology.’’

Photo: Donegal Co Council

than Trawbreaga Bay, which is smaller and where all aquaculture is oyster production. The Mulroy Bay CLAMS group is also designing warning signs to explain what the new markers mean. These will be installed at as many access points as possible around the bay. AI intends to install information boards at all piers

around both bays on completion of the plans. ‘‘The CLAMS groups have come together and are working well on the navigational requirements and directions for future use of their bays. ‘‘This is vital work in order to meet licence requirements and to protect the entire marine community who will benefit

from using the aids to navigation. ‘‘The next step is to develop an appropriate management framework through which we will be able to work more effectively with all the relevant stakeholders.’’ Navigational markers will be funded under the CLAMS initiative from BIM.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

FRESHWATER FOCUS

Scientists skating on thin ice? THE report of the Standing Scientific Committee of the National Salmon Commission: ‘The Status of Irish Salmon Stocks in 2006 and Precautionary Catch Advice for 2007’ is now the blueprint for the management of Irish salmon rivers. This report underpins government policy in relation to the management of wild Atlantic salmon in Ireland, writes Dr Martin O’Farrell. With the operation of fisheries restricted to estuaries and rivers from 2007, assessment now focuses primarily on estimating individual river returns from catch data, counter data if available and rod catch exploitation rates. These data are then related to the estimated salmon Conservation Limit (CL) / spawning target for each river. The CL estimate is based on several catchment parameters (wetted area, latitude) as well as the salmon characteristics in the catchment (sea age, fecundity, sex ratio). All CLs estimated in the SSC report relate to one-sea-winter salmon (1SW); their relevance on rivers where multi-sea-winter (MSW) salmon constitute a significant proportion of the run e.g. Slaney, Laune, Caragh, is questionable.

Assessment The SSC looked at 151 rivers in the Republic of Ireland. Of these, 15 had counter data; 2 had trap data, 58 had an average rod catch of more that 10 salmon (based on log-book returns from anglers), and 74 had a rod catch of less than 10 salmon (also based on log-book returns from anglers). The SSC recommended the closure of the 74 rivers that had a rod catch of less than 10 salmon per year, on the basis that these rivers supported small vulnerable salmon populations. As these rivers contributed a

very small percentage of the national rod catch, their closure was not important in angling catch terms. Of the remaining 77 rivers, 43 were identified as having an identifiable surplus over the CL while 34 were declared not to have, and were closed for 2007. Scientific literature is replete with references to the dangers of using salmon rod catch data to estimate stock abundance without knowledge of angling effort and rod exploitation rate. Designation of rivers for closure or open for harvest in 2007 seems to be at best, inconsistent and at worst, political. Consider the case of the Ballysadare River, Co Sligo (open for harvest in 2007).

Fish pass On the Ballysadare, virtually all salmon are taken by anglers in the Sea Pool — downstream of the fish counter location. The fish pass is operated intermittently and the upstream count shows that the rod exploitation rates during the years 20012005 were between 28.2% and 40.7%, significantly higher than the national average of 14% (see Table 1). Based on these rod catch / count data, the Ballysadare should have been closed. The text of the SSC report states:‘The Ballysadare River salmon population has persistently failed to achieve its spawning target. However it is likely to benefit substantially from the forgone commercial catch in 2007.’ The Ballysadare River was

open for angling in 2007 with a quota of 848 fish! There are fish counters on 15 rivers and the recommendations for closure/harvest based on rod catch/count are often as contradictory as the Ballysadare analysis given above (see sidebar question to the SSC and Table 2).

Lack of sufficient data The SSC was given an impossible and unenviable task. In my view, the SSC should have advised the NSC that insufficient scientific data existed upon which to base its recommendations, and should have refused to give advice on rivers for which it had no scientific index on salmon stock status (electric fishing survey data/fish counter data/effort related rod catch data etc). Instead, the SCC relied in the main on log-book returns from anglers which detailed salmon caught, killed and tagged. This assessment system rewards heavy angling pressure, and anglers who kill and tag salmon (the reward being that the river in question would be open for angling in 2007 and beyond). On rivers where a conservative approach was taken, closure was the reward. I sympathise with anglers/owners on such rivers; however I have little sympathy for anglers who under-declared their catch and have found rivers closed as a result! This philosophy replicates that of the three wise men’s

Catch of the day on the River Erriff.

hardship fund for commercial salmon fishermen who ceased operations in 2007: the more salmon they caught in the years

Photo: Jim Stafford, Manager, Erriff Fishery

2001-2005, the higher their financial award from the State. For salmon anglers on Irish rivers the message is also very

clear: the harder you fish/the more salmon you kill and tag, the higher the stock status assessment!

CFB protection vessel, An Bradán Beatha, on surveillance duty

Illegal drift nets seized on west coast OVER three miles of illegal driftnet were seized recently along the western seaboard by the Central Fisheries Board inshore fishery protection vessel, An Bradán Beatha and An Cosantóir Bradán. A spokesperson for the

CFB said they were ‘‘delighted’’ with this seizure. ‘‘The huge quantity of illegal netting being sued would have the potential to kill up to 1,000 salmon, some of which could be from rivers [that are] significantly below their con-

servation levels.’’ Despite the introduction of the new conservation legislation, a number of individuals ‘‘have continued to indiscriminately exploit our vulnerable salmon stocks,’’ the spokesperson added.

Question to the NSC INSHORE Ireland sent the following question to the NSC and was advised of ‘no comment’. Q. In the cases of the 15 rivers with counters, do you believe that you have taken a consistent

approach to the determination of exceedence of or failure to achieve CLs, and do you accept that the use of rod catch data to determine the open/closed status of rivers in 2007 and beyond is seriously flawed?

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

CHANDLERY

Something else to worry about

Poseidon the pink spiny lobster

By Johnny Woodlock

By John Rafferty A MASSIVE pink spiny lobster measuring almost 60cm and tipping the scales at 4.2kg (9.2lbs) was recently landed by the fishing boat Brittania around 200 miles south west of Newlyn. The lobster was accidentally caught along with two others while the crew were fishing for stony bass on a wreck at a depth of 238 metres and is now on display at the Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a real monster, about five times the size of an average spiny lobster,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; commented David Waines of Blue Reef Aquarium. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;In fact, heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so big it takes two members of staff to pick him up safely. Over the years weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve looked after some very big crustaceans indeed, ranging from Alaskan king crabs to lobsters, but we think heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the largest specimen weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever seen.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; The pink spiny lobster is closely related to the common crawfish but is usually found off the west coast of Africa and in the Mediterranean. It grows much bigger than its cousin and can survive at depths of up to 600 metres.

* A Blue Reef Aquarium staff member displays the giant pink spiny lobster.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;British records for this particular species are rare and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re still trying to establish whether Poseidon is a recordbreaker. His extraordinary size has saved him from the pot and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re now hoping heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able

to live out the rest of his days in the safety of the aquarium. No oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s certain how long pink spiny lobsters live, but to have grown so large one can only assume that heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a real old man of the sea,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; added David.

Meanwhile in Burtonport, Co Donegal, local fisherman Tony Boyle landed another heavyweight lobster of more than 4.5kg (+10lbs) that he had caught close to Arranmore.

LAST August I went down to the Moy Fishery for my annual go at the salmon. I was curious for a number of reasons: I wanted to see if there had been an improvement in the number of salmon returning, whether they had net marks and if they were any bigger than those I had seen over the past few years. Down at the Ridge Pool I mistakenly foul hooked a salmon which Miko Munnelly, the ghilly, tagged with two streamers in its back and quickly released. This fish, of about three pounds, had a well-healed gash on one flank. Mike said it was seal damage but I query this as it didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the telltale signs of scars on both sides. However, Miko pointed out a different problem, which he said was on the increase. A number of salmon were showing signs of ulceration and bleeding around the vent. Another ghilly said it was caused by a virus that started off in seals and that it was contagious to humans. Marcus Muller, the local fishery board officer, explained that the problem was actually caused by a nematode worm and was not a virus. Known as Anisakis, it is a fairly common parasite and not particularly pleasant. It starts its life as an egg that hatches at sea and is then ingested by zooplankton, such as a euphausid shrimp. This crustacean in turn is eaten by a fish where the larvae encyst,

* Ghilly Miko Munnelly lands a fine salmon for Sean McEvoy from Bray in the Ridge Pool. Photo: J Woodlock

usually in the gut lining but sometimes in the muscle or under the skin. A seal or a dolphin then eats the fish where is matures and reproduces and the cycle is complete. Although marine mammals are the intended final host of the parasite, humans can and do get infected. Anisakis can cause gastric upsets, nausea, vomiting and stomach pain. These symptoms usually happen about five hours after ingestion of infected fish. Cooking at 130ÂºC or freezing at -5Âº for two to five

days kills the parasite. These worms are also found in mackerel, squid and herring. A study of gastric upsets in Spain found that twelve were actually caused by Anisakis, from undercooked hake, sardines and anchovies. These twelve reported incidents were more than have been reported from the whole of Europe in the previous seven years. Clearly it is often misdiagnosed or misreported and is something all anglers should be aware of.

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INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

COASTLINE NEWS

Bringing safety training to coastal communities A new mobile Coastal Training Unit (CTU) launched by BIM, which provides safety training courses to the Irish fishing and aquaculture industries, boasts a unique expandible pod that increases the floor area by 16%. Launched by Mary Coughlan, Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, the new unit also houses the latest in IT infrastructure and features multi-media and satellite broadband communications technology supporting multiple computer terminals, radio and safety demonstration equipment (including a stability training model and separate fire demonstration trailer.) Video-conferencing capability allows for contact with training facilities in other

countries and widens the range of BIM's training courses. ``The new mobile unit is an important element of BIM's training programme, providing essential skills to a widely dispersed coastal clientele. The launch highlights BIM's continued roll-out of vital safety training countrywide, aimed at reducing the number of accidents and loss of life at sea,'' commented Minister Coughlan. Demand

According to Jason Whooley, BIM chief executive, the high demand for safety training among fishermen is a welcome development for the industry. ``It conveys the continued

success of BIM's ongoing initiative to deliver mandatory safety training to more than 4,000 Irish fishing vessel crew members and aquaculture personnel around the country.'' Courses include training in survival techniques, first aid, fire prevention, vessel safety, occupational health and safety and safety training initiatives. CTUs have been operating for more than 25 years, providing Department of Transport and Further Education & Training Award Council (FETAC) modular training courses at more than 30 remote coastal locations annually. In 2006, CTUs accommodated 720 new student registrations nationwide.

Ireland's under-19 surf rescue team receiving their medals (from left): Aidan Maguire of Wicklow, Daragh

O'Keefe of Waterford, and brothers James and Niall Roberts of Clare.

Bronze for Irish at European surfing championships *

Jim Morrissey, secretary, BIM; Seamus Dooley and Robert Molloy, BIM board members; Minister Mary

Coughlan; Rose McHugh, chairman, BIM; Jason Whooley, chief executive, BIM, and Richard McCormick, marine services manager, BIM, at the launch of the CTU.

IRELAND'S under-19 surf rescue team punched above their weight to win a highly respectable bronze medal in the European Championships in France, ending a good year in continuing development of this highly competitive sport in Ireland. The team outpaced older and

more experienced competition from 20 other countries, and only missed out on the silver medal by the narrowest of margins. At home, the Irish National Championships in Kilkee Co Clare, in September also marked a watershed, with participation from a record number

of competitors from all age groups. Surf rescue is a growing sport in Ireland, stretching back more than 50 years and is very important as a means of honing the skills of Ireland's beach lifeguards, and thus keeping everyone as safe as possible around the coast.

Surf rescue is a growing sport in Ireland, stretching back more than 50 years.

International co-operation The RNLI and the Crew Training Campaign • • • • • • •

There are over 1,000 highly trained, volunteer crewmembers in the RNLI in Ireland. When we recruit a volunteer, they make a major commitment – which could ultimately include risking their life. Our commitment to them is to provide the equipment and training they need to help them save lives as safely and effectively as possible. Only training can turn someone who’s willing to save lives at sea, into someone who can. The RNLI Crew Training Campaign needs to raise ?14M over the next five years to keep our volunteer crews trained. Each year it costs over ?1,460 per crewmember to keep them trained and ready for action. Please support the RNLI Crew Training Campaign

To find out more about the RNLI Crew Training Campaign, visit www.rnli.org.uk/crewtraining RNLI Ireland, Airside, Swords, Co Dublin, Ireland. Tel 01 895 1800 Email lifeboatsireland@rnli.org.uk The RNLI is a registered charity CHY 2678

is central to search and rescue conference SPEAKING at the 12th North maintain world-class stan- * Environmental data and Atlantic Marine Rescue Co- dards in coastguard services. SAR planning ordination Conference in Du- Up to the end of September ** Cold water endurance blin last month, Noel Demp- this year, more than 3,000 * EU flood command project sey, Minister for Transport, people were either rescued or Coastguard cliff rescue syssaid that the purpose of the assisted by the Irish Coast- *tems SAR demonstration and conference was to enhance guard, who are doing fantastic international co-operation in work on our behalf,'' he said. information exchange and netsearch and rescue; exchange Topics covered included: working. information and best practice * Updates on SAR (search Attending the conference were delegates from Norway, on new search and rescue and rescue) services systems, and to encourage * SAR incident presentation the Netherlands, France, Spain, Portugal, Canada, the joint training and exercises and reviews * `Safety on the water' devel- United Kingdom, Faeroes, between countries. ``In Ireland we aim to opments in Ireland Iceland, USA and Bermuda.

INSHORE IRELAND

November 2007

COASTLINE NEWS

* Thames racing skiffs at the start of the `Great River Race' 2007.

Traditional boat racing growing in popularity INTERNATIONAL regattas and races for traditional boats have been growing in popularity in recent years. One of the longest running, and possibly most colourful race, is the Venice Historical Regatta, the `Vogalonga'. In the British Isles, two of the biggest river races are the `Thames Great River Race' in London and the Ra Â s Mo Â r `Ocean to City Race in Cork', writes Darina Tully.

While the river races attract `fun' entries, most of the participating craft have their origins in coastal rowing and take their entries reasonably seriously Ð the crews training to be competitive in their class. The `Thames Great River Race' is held annually in September, over a 22-mile course from Richmond to Greenwich.

At this year's event, 35 classes were represented, including Thames skiffs, Slaney cots, currachs from Cork, Clare and the UK, Welsh longboats, Cornish pilot gigs and a whaling boat built in 1896, rowed by a sprightly crew of pensioners. The annual `Ocean to City Race' has its origins in the 2005 Cork City of Culture Celebrations. The race is held over 15 miles, from Crosshaven to the centre of Cork City. This year, it attracted a large number of currachs, including traditional four-man working naomhoÂgs, along with Dunfanaghy-style currachs crewed by various youth clubs. The next RaÂs MoÂr takes place on 31 May, 2008. Most of the river races include dragon boats. These are long narrow boats displaying removable dragon heads and

tails on the stem and stern posts. Often accompanied by musicians, a crew of 20 or more use single paddles to propel the craft. Dragon boats are an ideal way of introducing community groups or the inexperienced to racing. Meitheal Mara, the Corkbased currach research and building group, has purchased two dragon boats, which are proving very popular, especially in getting youth groups onto the water. The races not only give another focus for using traditional boats, but they also expose the wider public to traditional craft. While all initiatives to continue the tradition of boat heritage are welcome, the primary function as fishing boats is diminishing rapidly and needs State intervention to ensure its survival.

* An 1896 whaling boat (`Thames Great River Race').

* Heading for line at the `Ocean to City Race'.

Photos: D Tully

* The currach `BreandaÂn' (`Thames Great River Race').

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

OUTSIDE IRELAND

* Fishing in the CuyutlaĂ&#x201A;n lagoon, Colima State, Mexico.

Photo. B O'Riordan

* Wasteland in Ceara, Brazil, created by shrimp aquaculture.

Intensive aquaculture: Certified killer or green industry? WHAT can besound ethicalaboutor of Fishworkers (ICSF). environmentally intensive industrial aquaculture? Providing some answers to such questions is the task facing the FAO-NACA initiative to developcertification, guidelines for aquaculture reports Brian O'Riordan, International Collective in Support

impacts caused by aquaculture.

sustainable development, with

Sensitive to such criticism,

Industrial aquaculture stands

profits and other benefits being

the aquaculture industry and its

accused of the worst kinds of

off-shored, and social and en-

supporters have tried to clean

been initiated in collaboration

environmental crimes and anti-

vironmental costs externalised.

with

social

Industrial aquaculture leaves an

with

behaviour

the `rape

characterises

associated

and

all

run' that

that

bad

Several

`dialogues'

the

critics

industrial

aquaculture, particularly in Latin America. NGOs attending the meeting

Aquaculture Alliance (GAA) is

profit organisations and other

urged that the guidelines/stan-

ecological footprint that is both

one such high profile initiative

stakeholders. Five such `aqua-

heavy

aquatic

aimed at substantiating the in-

culture dialogues' are currently

* Respect for human rights, the

and

indelible,

image.

The

Global

buyers,

non-

their

producers,

have

dards should include:

busi-

commons in ruin, local commu-

dustry's claims of environmen-

in process: shrimp, tilapia, mol-

right to life Ă? repudiating the

ness. In short, say detractors,

nities abused and displaced, and

tally

lusc, pangasius, and salmon.

practices

its practices are the antithesis of

human rights violated.

aquaculture. The FAO, World

about

international

big

and

socially

responsible

violence

against

proper participation

key roles in supporting these

passed on to new or existing

endeavours. Support initiatives

certification organisations, pos-

communities

include

sibly through processes akin to

development of aquaculture

the

consortium

aquaculture,

the setting up of the MSC.

Local communities rights to References to the health of affected

the

* References to the impacts on fisheries production and to food

the aquaculture dialogues pro-

Irresponsible activity

moted by the WWF.

On the other side of the fence,

cated by the development of the

the

the FAO, the Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific (NACA), gramme

th e of

Global

Action

Pro-

for

the

Protection of the Marine Envirities

the

United

Environmental

Nations

Programme

(UNEP/GPA), the World Bank (WB) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Founded in 1999, the Consortium pioneered the development of international principles for responsible shrimp farming. But many NGOs have criticised this initiative as `green wash'. When the Consortium won the World Bank's `Green Award' in 2006, there was even greater scepticism about its role as an impartial

judge

industrial

aquaculture practices. Organic farming, fair trade and

responsible

consumerism

have long and respected histories. But in recent years these concepts the

have

labelling

`green',

`fair

`sustainable come

been of

poached:

products

trade'

from

sources'

has

be-

commercial

tool

for

developing niche markets and for

presenting

green

and

pleasant image to attract customers by the food industry and retail

business,

especially

the

supermarkets. Eco-certification of fish and fishery products is a relatively recent phenomenon, especially for

aquaculture,

over

which

NGOs are highly divided. For example, WWF collabo-

jo@samaritans.org

communities

tifying

onment from Land-based Activ-

www.samaritans.ie

perfor-

mance-based standards for cer-

Consortium members include

We can help you see the way forward

develop

for Nature (WWF) have played

onment (The Consortium) and

24:7 Confidential Emotional Support

will

Bank and the World Wide Fund

shrimp farming and the envir-

tel:1850 60 90 90

These

rates

with

holders

range

develop

stake-

credible,

voluntary standards geared toward minimising or eliminating the

environmental

and

social

`Redmanglar ',

American

network,

security of populations impli-

Latin-

highly

critical of aquaculture certifica-

aquaculture industry Respect of workers' security

defined

international

tion schemes. Since 2003, they

norms on work and respect of

have issued several strong state-

`Shrimp farming certification schemes currently being proposeddo not guarantee an ecologically and socially responsible activity.' (2003); and that `Current certification schemes will not help to address the massive environmental and severe social impacts caused by the shrimp industrythey may in fact legitimise past and current injustices and even lead to further expansion.' (2006). ments to the effect that

Their opposition was sparked by a GTZ (German Technical Cooperation) backed initiative implemented by the certifying company Naturland in Ecuador. How could shrimp be certi-

national legislations, and Consideration and inclusion

of gender and age-class aspects in

the

development

the

activity and their implications. Serious

misgivings

aired

about

costs

the

were

opportunity

developing

intensive

aquaculture, particularly where significant

government

subsi-

dies may be provided. According

Juan

Carlos

Cardenas, Director of Ecoceanos: ``We need alternative options

for

aquaculture

development, for developing a more democratic and decentralised society that is socially just, environmentally

sustainable

and culturally diverse.''

fied as organic when produced

Opposition vented

by companies that had illegally

occupied

man-

workshop, the strong opposition

groves (an offence in Ecuador)

and scepticism about aquacul-

degraded the environment, and

ture certification schemes was

carried out no environmental or

given

social impact studies, they de-

Declaration',

manded.

North-South Consultation held

land,

cleared

this

background,

government (through its FishSecretariat,

tempted

discussion

aquaculture

SEAP)

open

at-

guidelines

certification,

a for

with

a particular focus on the Americas, through an `Expert Workshop

Guidelines

vent

tember.

the

FAO, NACA and the Brazilian eries

month

following

the

`Lampung

following

the

in Lampung, Indonesia in Sep-

Guideline discussion Against

the

for

Aquaculture Certification', organised in Brazil last August. This seemed a good opportunity to air in a public international forum the concerns raised

Delegates

from

countries, in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and North America, criticised the attempts of `the industry, with the support

certain

international

NGOs, to improve its public image by developing certification processes and misleading labels such as `ethical shrimp' and `organic shrimp' to mask ecological rights

damage,

violation,

human

widening

in-

come gap, loss of jobs and other real

problems

industry.'

caused

the

INSHORE IRELAND

November 2007

SEAFOOD MARKETING IASC

Drive to promote seafood consumption by Seafood Circle specialists active AT first glance, the term fishmonger may seem a tad oldfashioned. You could even be forgiven for thinking it had gone the way of the penny farthing and 10 shilling note. Traditional fish shops, however, aren't merely surviving in this country, they are positively thriving with consumer demand growing at a rate of 15% a year. So, what are the reasons behind the continued success of Irish fish shops, many of whom have been in business for generations? Certainly more and more consumers now realise that seafood is a healthy part of any balanced diet. They are also increasingly aware that Omega-3, found in oil-rich fish such as mackerel, trout, herring and salmon, helps boost concentration and memory. But perhaps the main reason for this resurgence of the traditional fishmonger is that he or she is an acknowledged seafood specialist. There are now over 30 such `seafood specialists' who are members of IASC (Irish Association of Seafood Companies) the length and breadth of the country form Donegal to Cork and Galway to Louth, some of whom are fifth generation businesses. All IASC members have an unrivalled knowledge of fish that meets the needs of a modern multicultural Ireland with a professional consumerfocused experience. So not only will they skin, bone or fillet

your favourite fresh fish, they're more than happy to take the time to offer advice on recipe ideas, proper preparation and serving tips. ``There's no doubt that all of our members take a great deal of pride in what they do. But, in all honesty, it's a lot more than just a job, it's a way of life,'' Martina Clarke, development executive of IASC told Inshore Ireland. ``As seafood specialists, our members will quite willingly go out of their way to ensure that their customers are served the best in quality, freshness, and of course value for money.'' She added that careful sourcing, a good selection and above all a sustainable approach to the gift of the sea is what customers want today. ``Our members have the expertise and experience to deliver just that.'' In recognition of their indepth knowledge and skills in the area of fresh seafood, 30 IASC members have recently

received their 2007 Seafood Circle plaques from BIM. This marks the first year of the new Seafood Circle initiative, the aim of which is to promote seafood retailers, pubs and restaurants who deliver excellent seafood and service to their customers. BIM is currently promoting the Seafood Circle through a high-profile national marketing campaign of outdoor and inshop posters, consumer competitions as well as radio commercials. This year also sees IASC members promoting themselves for the very first time via national newspaper advertising campaigns and in-store posters. ``We have great people and a great product. I hope this is just the start of even bigger things to come from IASC,'' adds Martina Clarke. ``So if you're looking for the very best in fresh seafood, advice on selecting the perfect fish or shellfish, tantalising recipe ideas and serving tips, simply call into any seafood specialist proudly displaying the BIM Seafood Circle plaque, or go to www. seafoodcircle.ie for the IASC member nearest you.'' * You can contact Martina Clarke at IASC, 70B Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co Louth. Tel: 042 9386977; fax 042 9395566; email martina@iasc.ie or visit the website: www.iasc.ie

Workshop to create awareness of

Listeria monocytogenes

BIM'S Seafood Development Centre is hosting a one-day workshop on the control of Listeria monocytogenes in the seafood processing industry at the Ashtown Food Research Centre, Teagasc, Ashtown, Dublin, 15, on November 6. The workshop, which is supported by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) and the Ashtown Food Re-

search Centre, will increase awareness of the problem posed by L. monocytogenes and will explore ways of reducing its occurrence in processing environments. This workshop will give an overview of current food hygiene legislation, with an emphasis on the microbiology criteria for ready-to-eat food. It will also include a practical

demonstration of cleaning techniques and best practices to reduce the occurrence of this pathogen. The workshop is aimed at owners, managers and quality and technical personnel of seafood businesses. Registration is online at www.bim.ie/ listeriaworkshop or by contacting Wendy Sullivan at 012144279 or sullivan@bim.ie.

Whether eating in or dining out our seafood experience will enhance yours Just look for the Seafood Circle www.seafoodcircle.ie

Spanish Seafood fair lights up Vigo THE ninth edition of Conxe- is ideal for networking with mara Seafoods; Errigal; Glenmar, the Spanish Seafood fair, clients in Spain and Italy and mar; O'Malley Seafoods; took place in Vigo, Spain in is timely as it takes place within Rooney Fish; Shellfish de la early October 2007, attracting three months of the run up to Mer; Sofrimar and Wrights of Howth. 650 exhibitors from across the the busy end of year season. Conxemar 2008 is scheduled Nine Irish companies were industry, compared to 580 in represented on the BIM Ireland to take place from 7 to 9 2006. According to BIM, the event stand, namely: CKI; Conne- October.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

MARINE R&D

Galway Bay survey reveals extensive granite and limestone seabed Report by Charise McKeon, GSI

A survey of Galway Bay's seabed onboard RV Celtic Voyager this summer has revealed, for the first time, the detailed seafloor and geology of the bay and confirms the location of the Galway Bay Fault Ð a fault line in the North Sound that runs north-west to south-east, between Lettermullan/Gorumna Islands in West Connemara and the Aran Islands. The fault line demarks the limits of Galway's granite landscape. ``Initial analyses Ð as well as defining the Galway Bay Fault and revealing it to be a more complex feature than previously thought, show a parallel ridge off Rossaveal and clear definition of the extent of the granite and limestone areas. Features on the GSI geological maps and reports of Galway Bay and adjoining onshore areas can now be confirmed and revised, based on the latest data,'' explained Koen Vergruggen, GSI.

What lies beneath

During the three-week survey, the INFOMAR (Integrated Mapping for the Sustainable

Development of Ireland's Marine Resource) team mapped many seabed features including the `Red Strand Bank' Ð a seabed feature off Arkeen Point in a water depth of 24m Ð a series of three areas that become gradually shallower between the mainland and Inis Oirr, the Killa (17m), Craigmore (28m) and Gurnet Patches (26m), and a number of `holes' 50m in depth. Other features include distinct fissures in exposed bedrock on the Brocklinmore and Brocklinbeg Banks that become shallow just north of Inis MoÂr and cause standing waves at changes in the tide. These are shown on navigation charts as `breaks with swell'. A series of sand wave fields of different scales are evident between Inis MoÂ r and Inis MeaÂin and Clare's limestone landscape was shown to continue underwater just off Doolin where underground caves open onto the seafloor. The survey by the GSI and the Marine Institute covered approximately 60% of the bay, from the Aran Islands in to 20m water depth. When combined with the coverage achieved in 2006 by light aircraft mounted LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), only about 20%

now remains to be mapped. The remaining area consists of two strips close to the shore Ð one along the north of the bay and the second along the West Clare coast, and a portion of the inner bay between Spiddal and Oranmore. The inner bay is currently being surveyed by IMAR Ð an Irish-based geophysical and hydrographic surveying company Ð onboard t h e S . V. C o n a m a r a ;

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groundtruthing of the Bay will be completed by Aqua-Fact within the coming weeks. Further LIDAR surveying of the north-east coast is planned for 2008. In line with these surveys, data will be processed and merged with previous datasets collected to produce revised hydrographic, geological and habitat maps of Galway Bay and its approaches. Funded though the Griffith Geosciences Awards, researchers at NUIG will carry out additional survey work, looking at sediment transport, karst groundwater interactions and ecological studies.

`Open day' for budding mariners

THE National Maritime College of Ireland will open its doors to a wider audience during 6-7 November when school students can visit the college to see the areas of maritime training at first hand. Shipping companies and maritime organisations from around Ireland and Europe will be present to offer explanation of their work in the global shipping industry.

Awareness

The event is intended to boost awareness of the maritime sector and offer genuine first-hand information to the schools' students visiting the event. Over 800 schools from around Ireland have been invited to the two-day event, and an excellent response from both shipping, ports and training sectors will help to bring shipping and maritime transportation alive in Ringaskiddy. Further information contact 021 4970600 or see the website: www.nmci.ie

Ireland joins International Hydrographic Office

IRELAND has established a hydrographic office to begin the process of managing its own hydrographic responsibilities. A seminar to discuss the implications organised by the Irish Nautical Institute, Ireland Branch, takes place on 8 November at the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) in Cork.

Speakers

Speakers include Capt Michael Purcell, Department of Transport, Dr Clive Symmons, author Ireland and the Law of the Sea, Capt Robert McCabe Ð Commissioners of Irish Lights; Dr Fiona Fitzpatrick, Marine Institute; John Pepper and Roger Millard, UK Hydrographic Office. Registration details from Gary E. Delaney,GPS Consultant, GPS Ireland Consultants Ltd. www.gpsireland.ie

INSHORE IRELAND

November 2007

SHIPPING SPOTLIGHT

Shipping drives the economy forward By John Hearne

WITH media commentators tussling over the likely future direction of the economy, strong growth in the shipping sector continues to emphasise its underlying strength. Estimates for the first six months of 2007 show that the passenger market increased by 5% compared to the same period last year. Total passenger numbers to the end of June came in just over the 1.4 million mark. This result comes shortly after the IMDO's robust assessment of Irish shipping container traffic for the first six months of the year. The office estimates that the lo/lo sector grew by 11% and the ro/ro sector by 12%

compared to the same period a year earlier. IMDO director Glen Murphy believes that the strong passenger performance represents a marketing triumph on the part of the shipping lines. ``I think there has been a bit of a blind spot with the consumer in terms of how the product has advanced over the last five years. ``If you look at the type of vessels you have, particularly on the Irish Sea routes, their passenger vessels have come a long way over the last 15 years. I think that's the message that they're getting across; that they have a very good product, particularly focused on the family and the car market.'' Moreover, while the sea pas-

senger experience has improved substantially, the corresponding experience of the air passenger has deteriorated markedly. Security and baggage restrictions, infrastructural bottlenecks, queuing and the poor customer service record of the budget airlines has prompted a reassessment of travel and holiday plans. Respectable growth in freight traffic indicates solid performances in both imports and exports. Trade surplus in the first six months of the year came in 278m higher than the same period in 2006, on the back of a 6% increase in the value of exports and a 5% increase in the value of imports. Behind those numbers, Glen Murphy identifies the ongoing

growth of the unitised sector in Ireland. ``It's continuing to penetrate into non-containerised sectors, so you'll see more bulk products, more timber products, and products that may previously have moved in different modes now being moved by container.'' The fact that the dollar continues to plumb new depths against the euro will be a worry for US exporters; although given the fact that some 61% of our trade is within the euro zone, the impact of recent currency moves across the sector will be limited. ``For the ordinary shipping companies, the dollar is a double-edged sword. If their sales are in euro, they're going to benefit Ă? particularly if their

fixed overheads, i.e. their vessel repayments, crew costs and bunkering are in dollars. However, the gains will be marginal because they have to compensate for certain markets that are suffering as a result of the dollar's moves. These things tend to even themselves out in the longer term,'' Murphy emphasis. Economic growth estimates from both the Central Bank and the Economic and Social Research Institute (ERSI) suggest a slowdown in the coming months, with the most authoritative commentators anticipating a soft landing rather than crash. In the longer term, with the Irish economy becoming more and more service based, is there

likely to be a consequent decline in our reliance on shipping? Glen Murphy believes not. ``We're an island economy, so the less we produce here, the more we need to import so, either way, when we're producing less here, we're gong to have to import more. And we're actually seeing that in the trade statistics. ``Import laden boxes compared to export laden boxes are running at a ratio of about 2:1. It's natural for an economy like Ireland to become more service based, but it doesn't diminish the role of shipping. Shipping will still have a role to play in terms of keeping the economy competitive in the long term.''

Growing tonnage at Irish ports raises capacity issue Addressing the National Ports Conference at the end of September, the Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey said that since 2000, tonnage throughput at Irish ports has increased by almost 20% and that 2006 was another good year for the sector, which saw overall tonnage figures up 2.2% to 53.3 million tonnes.

Credit

``It is a credit to the sector that it has managed this rapid growth without any major disruption of trade in and out of the country. I am also pleased to note that the passenger market increased by 5% for the first six months, showing a 1.5 million passengers throughput.'' Minister Dempsey added, however, that continuing strong growth in tonnage was leading to a port capacity issue. ``As Minister with responsibility for the sector, it is my job to ensure that we continuously review and adapt our strategies to fit the changing social and economic circumstances. It is vital to ensure that significant additional capacity is brought about as quickly as possible so that a national capacity shortfall is not encountered. ``To this end, the Government will undertake a comprehensive study of the role of Dublin Port, as indicated in the National Development Plan, taking account of location considerations, in the context of

policy, the National Spatial Strategy and national economic policy.'' He also highlighted the growth in shipping activity, which has seen a threefold increase in the number of ships owned, managed and operated by Irish ship owners. Direct shipping services between Ireland, the UK and the Continent have increased 79% since 1996. ``A strong, competitive and vibrant network of seaborne links is of vital importance for Ireland to continue to meet the needs of tourism, trade and industry. ``I think it is clear that the * 4,000 people are employed issues facing our ports are within the Dublin port estate. challenging and that through a dynamic effort by all conour ports can continue overall ports policy on the cerned, to develop and underpin the island of Ireland, wider trans- needs of the economy,'' he port policy, urban development concluded.

Port of the Year 2007

DUBLIN Port was awarded Port Of The Year status for 2007 at the at All-Ireland in Belfast. The award recognises the major progress achieved since 1997 when Dublin Port Company was established as a corporate entity to manage the port of Dublin on a commercial basis. Dublin Port is now Ireland's largest and busiest port, handling over 46% by volume of all imports and exports from Ireland. Throughput has increased from 16.8 million tonnes in 1996 to 29.3 million tonnes in 2006, and investment in port infrastructure has grown from 14.5m to 200 during the past 10 years. Transport & Logistics Awards 2007

Public consultation on Porcupine oil and gas exploration AHEAD of decisions on the awarding of new oil and gas exploration licences in the Porcupine Basin off Co Kerry, environmental consultants Aquafact have undertaken a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the region, reports Shay Fennelly.

The SEA will inform the industry of the environmental characteristics and sensitivities of the Basin and will make recommendations to Minister

Ryan as to how these should be addressed. Three public consultation meetings were held last month in Galway, Limerick and Bantry by the Petroleum Affairs Division of the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. Documents on the public consultation and the SEA report are available at the www.dcmnr.ie website. Attendance in Galway more than doubled from the first SEA in 2006, from seven to 18 people.

According to one of the steering group members, one weakness of the consultation process to emerge is the absence of a review procedure to see that recommendations are implemented. This lack of transparency where there is no real method to review progress is a great weakness. There are lots of recommendations but little progress. A periodic review by the steering group could strengthen the SEA process, he said.

* Dublin Port attracted almost 8,000 vessels, including 75 cruiseline vessels, to Dublin in 2006.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

WORLD SEAFOOD CONGRESS

Stark warning issues from 2007 World Seafood Congress ever unlikely, these evoke strong feelings. We also valorise particular groups in society more highly than others. For example, we go to extreme lengths to try not to expose pregnant women to perceived risks, even if in so doing we actually deny them and their children real benefits. These characteristics are deeply embedded in our psyches, and although we are largely unaware of them at a conscious level, they affect the choices we make. On the other hand, and rather perversely, we are very bad at factoring longer term benefit into our lifestyle choices. The evidence is very clear: eating lots of seafood brings serious benefits. But those benefits are not instantaneous and it takes a conscious effort to change our lifestyle away from our current consumption pattern to the healthier choice of seafood.

Donal Maguire, congress moderator explains EXPERTS attending WSC’07 reinforced a simple but important message: ‘the need to eat more seafood as a matter of urgency’. Studies show beyond doubt that everyone — pregnant women, children and adults of all ages — should eat more seafood, and that the worldwide rising tide of obesity, mental illness and child behavioural difficulties could all be dramatically helped by increased seafood consumption. The food safety authorities around the world, however, are finding it difficult to give that clear advice. More importantly, experts like doctors and dieticians remain confused by the lack of a lead from the food agencies and, in many cases, they are actually advising their patients to avoid seafood altogether.

Political correctness A weird form of political correctness is gripping the regulatory system. The paradigm is this: despite the fact that the benefits of eating seafood are overwhelming and far outweigh the ‘theoretical’ risk, agencies

Poor communication *

Donal Maguire, congress moderator.

feel compelled to highlight these risks, to the detriment of the consumers they are tasked with protecting. This situation seems ludicrous at first sight, but it boils down to the skewed way in

Photo: G Mills

which humans evaluate the world. We are very averse to certain types of risk — the so-called ‘creeping dread’ type risks, like cancer, and catastrophic-type risks, like plane crashes. How-

Inadvertently, our current system of communicating with consumers is through the use of ‘risk-only’ advisories such as the well known, ‘recommended intake of seafood should be limited to two helpings per week....’ This is having the unintended

consequence of actually putting people off eating seafood altogether, even though most of us never reach that level of consumption in the first place. Clearly, our communications approach needs to change if we are to succeed in helping the Irish people to help themselves by changing their eating habits for the better. There is a further complicating factor in this mix of consumer psychology and resistance to change and that is that the level of concern and dread that the consumer feels is usually not in any way proportional to the real level of the risk. Thus, there can be very high levels of concern even when the risk is very small or even just theoretical, as is the case with trace contaminants in seafood. Perversely, human concern levels can be very low, even when the risk is high, especially if it is familiar. This explains why smokers keep smoking and people keep driving too fast. So consumers may be much exercised about an issue even though the reality of that risk is inconsequential.

Over-reaction To compound this consumer confusion, the professionals in

risk assessment and seafood safety regulation often fail to appreciate this facet of human behaviour. They tend to be intolerant of this human ‘overreaction’ reflex and issue advice in a form that only they in their politically correct world understand. So, food advisories are formulated on the basis of an appreciation of comparative risk, and are sent out to an audience that does not understand this concept and does not want to have to make the difficult cognitive leap to grasp it. The result is confusion and the unintended consequence is to put people off eating seafood altogether. In speaking about this issue, Professor Michael Crawford, head of the Institute of Brain Chemistry and Human Nutrition at London’s Metropolitan University, and a leading world expert, stated: ‘‘This is the greatest scourge facing our society in modern times and most people are not even aware of it.’’ It’s time to change the message and the way that it is being put across. Put simply, we all need to be eating more seafood, and it’s high time that political correctness stopped being the tail that is wagging the dog.

SOME OF THE KEY PRESENTATIONS

Mary Mehigan — Head of Corporate Grimur Valdimarsson — Director, Fish Peter Hajipieris — Group Policy Manager Affairs & Corporate Social Responsibility Products and Industry Division, FAO Rome Seafood, Tesco UK for Wal-Mart and Asda UK On worldwide fisheries regulation: On challenges for sustainable seafood: On sustainability: ‘‘IN too many fisheries around the world, catch limits are not yet ‘‘TESCO aims to ensure that the wild catch and the farmed ‘‘THE outlook is chilling. The earth’s resources are being used faster than they can be replaced. Humanity demands three times what the Earth can supply today. In a world of uncertainty about food chain standards, transparency gives confidence to customers. That, in turn, is what drives loyalty and security. ‘‘One of the sad things for us in Asda is that much of the seafood we sell must come from outside Europe. European waters have been so badly managed that we can’t find the seafood we need from sustainable sources despite a strong preference for local sourcing by our buyers and customers. If you are a small business in the UK or Ireland, fishing from sustainable sources, we can work with you. Asda believes in supporting fishing communities, and, today, sustainability is our over-riding growth strategy. ‘‘Sustainability protects our freedom to grow, and it preserves our licence to trade. It is about doing the right thing! The suppliers working with Asda today are those who will be working with us tomorrow. So, if you are not already discussing these issues with your owners or with your executive board you are in the wrong place. You are not the right supplier for us. This is not just a public relations exercise or an exercise in corporate social responsibility just to keep our customers happy If you think that way you are fundamentally wrong. This is a mainstream business strategy. The world must change the way it produces and the way it consumes. Sustainability is not a social issue, it is an economic one. We are all in this together.’’

set. Open or semi-open access still prevails, and there is also an ineffective regulatory approach to fisheries management to ensure that too many fish are not taken. This means that most fisheries administrations around the world still use regulations to govern their fisheries that have been abandoned in most other sectors of modern economies — the top-down command-and-control approach. This approach is quite different from setting up incentive structures that align the business with conservation. ‘‘FAO has been pointing out the paramount importance of establishing the secure use of rights for fisheries to establish the incentive structure that will limit fishing effort as well as wasteful and destructive fishing practices. It is not a new issue but, certainly, the uptake is very slow. And that is true all over the world. ‘‘Ichiro Namura, assistant director-general of the FAO’s Fisheries and Aquaculture Department, has said: ‘The FAO Secretariat has moved beyond a doubt on the matter of whether fisheries rights are good or not. They are absolutely necessary and fundamental to the sustainability of the world’s fisheries resources.’ ‘‘It seems now, however, that the importance of establishing clear fishing rights is catching on. It is now estimated that some thousand fisheries worldwide are being regulated through dedicated access arrangements or quotas.’’

seafood we sell comes from fisheries that are managed in a manner that is consistent with responsible fisheries management. We are fully committed to working with policy-makers, the fisheries industry and the organisations that support the principles of sustainable fisheries development. And, quite frankly, for this to happen it’s important that we all work together. ‘‘Therefore, I’m now issuing a call to ‘beat the cheats’, because one of the main challenges facing us is the blind spots around the world where there simply is not enough information. Intelligence is very important. ‘‘We’re willing to work with anybody where we can start to reduce the risks of weak fisheries data. You might think that because they supply us, some of our suppliers would be willing to work in that way. Actually, they’re not! They consider fisheries data to be intellectual capital and they’re afraid that were they to divulge it, someone else would be likely to go in and source product from it. We have got to overcome that kind of challenge. I would ask if it is the case that you don’t want to share the data, or could it be that in fact you don’t have any data?’’

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

WORLD SEAFOOD CONGRESS

Importance of Omega-3 in daily diet During the World Seafood Congress, Dr Alex Richardson took time out to speak to Inshore Ireland to drive home her message on the importance of Omega-3 in the daily diet.

Q&A SINCE its publication in 2005, what other findings have emerged from the OxfordDurham Study? ONE of the interesting findings not published in that paper, but from the same trial, was a significant improvement in ‘working memory’ in children given fatty acids. Difficulties with working memory are a hallmark of Dyslexia, and are actually used in formal diagnosis. But they’re also very common in children with Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Dyspraxia, and a feature of both Depression and Age-Related Cognitive Decline. So if omega-3 really can improve working memory, that could have huge implications. We have some blood data from a group of Dyslexic adults showing significant correlations between working memory and Omega-3 in general, but EPA in particular, such that those with the lowest blood levels of EPA and DHA had the worst performance on this working memory measure. IS it true that Omega-3 in the diet contributes to healthy vision? THE link between Omega-3, and particularly DHA, and the development of vision, is critical. Between a third and a half of your retina should be DHA. No other fatty acid will do the same job. At almost any age, but particularly in the very young and the elderly, a lack of these nutrients can have profound implications for vision. A mechanism has been traced to show that EPA and DHA will actually prevent the abnormal growth of blood vessels in the retina. Treatment trials and population studies show that in preventing the commonest cause of vision loss in old age, these Omega-3 in the diet are vital. GOVERNMENT advisories say that mercury levels in some fish can threaten health, so would you advise pregnant women to eat fish or to take Omega-3 supplements? THE mother should be consuming plenty of Omega-3 even

DR Alex Richardson is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Oxford’s Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, and a Founder Director of the charity Food And Behaviour Research (FAB Res e a r c h : s e e www.fabresearch.org). Dr Richardson is internationally known for her research into the role of nutrition in behaviour, learning and mood and, in particular, for her controlled trials of Omega-3 fatty acids for child behaviour and learning difficulties. Her cutting-edge book, They are what you feed them — how food can improve your child’s behaviour, mood and learning’ (Harper Thorsons, 2006), exposes the truth about what children today eat — or fail to eat. before she’s pregnant if she wants to ensure adequate supplies for her developing baby. A major study of 13,000 pregnant women, which has been following their children ever since, has specifically addressed the issue of ‘should pregnant women be worried about the mercury in fish versus the benefits of fish and seafood being the main natural source of EPA and DHA?’ Relating the mother’s dietary intake of Omega-3 during pregnancy to the child’s verbal intelligence, motor skills, behaviour and more, up to the age of eight, the study found very clear and direct relationships between how much fish and seafood a mother eats during pregnancy and how well her child does on those measures. In other words, these real-life findings indicate that the nutritional benefits of fish and seafood far outweigh any theoretical risks (because that’s all they are at the moment) from mercury. If anyone is worried about contaminants, I’d say they should look for a good quality supplement. DID the study recommend an upper limit of dietary Omega3 beyond which pregnant women should not go? THERE was no upper limit of benefit seen. The best outcomes were in the children of mothers who ate more than the official recommended intake of fish during pregnancy — that is more than 340 grams of fish a week (roughly two portions). That’s why this study has at-

Dr Alex Richardson (centre) with Prof Pat Wall, European Food Safety Authority Ireland and Paula Mee, consultant dietitian.

tracted a lot of attention to this issue. Now, at the moment, the official advice has not changed, but the authors of that study were prepared to come out and say that it looks as though this official advice in the UK and America is actually doing harm! WE know that the advice has been for a good reason, but it ignores the benefits. And it has caused pregnant women to eat even less fish — when they weren’t consuming enough before. Eating even some fish and seafood is better than eating none, but it looks like ‘the more the better’ (although a few types, like swordfish and marlin, are best avoided). AS a supplement, how much Omega-3 should be taken daily, and what kind? FIRST, it’s crucial to recognise that only the Omega-3 found in fish and seafood — EPA and DHA — have proven health benefits. Other Omega-3 from vegetarian sources don’t. In early life, and for pregnant women, we tend to emphasise DHA, because it is important as a building block of brain and nerve cell membranes. For mental health and performance in older children or adults, the pattern emerging shows that EPA may produce better results than DHA. However, we don’t have enough studies comparing them side-by-side, and natural foods always contain both. We need more research on doses and ratios, but a good ruleof-thumb is half a gram a day (500 milligrams) of EPA and DHA, which experts recommend just for maintaining heart health. That should be everyone’s minimum target. The American Psychiatric Association have now recommended at least one gram per day (1,000 milligrams) of EPA and DHA for the treatment of Depression and Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression), but I must emphasise that this is in addition to any standard treat-

ment you might be receiving, not as a substitute. IS it possible to overdose on Omega-3 either by eating too much fish or through supplements? WITH difficulty. According to the US Food and Drugs Administration, who are generally very conservative on these things, up to 3,000 mg a day is regarded as safe. In Japan, where the traditional diet is very rich in fish and seafood, Omega-3 intakes are usually much higher. It is no coincidence that

Japanese rates of heart disease, various cancers and inflammatory conditions are far lower than other countries with a different kind of diet. There are also clear negative relationships between Omega-3 intake and many different health conditions across countries; the less fish and seafood consumed, the higher are the rates of depression. The same relationship holds for post-natal depression, bipolar disorder and impulsivity (as measured by either suicide or homicide), as well as for heart disease and mortality.

SHOULD governments do more to ensure that people increase their intake of Omega-3s through fish and seafood? GOVERNMENTS and health authorities could do a lot more to publicise some of the known associations between diet and mental and physical health. This information should be put in a much more accessible way. People actually trust such information when it comes from governments rather than from commercial companies trying to sell something.

Special offer for Inshore Ireland readers DR Alex Richardson is a leading authority on the role of nutrition (and particularly fatty acids) in child behaviour and learning and adult mental health. She has more than 80 research publications from her work at Oxford University’s Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, and is a founder director of the charity, Food And Behaviour Research (www.fabresearch.org), which receives all royalties from her recent book, They Are What You Feed Them. FAB Research is offering Inshore Ireland readers Alex Richardson’s book at the special price of €15 (€12 + p&p). Payment by credit card, cheque or postal order. For more details call Shield Health Ltd on 045 892267.

DR Alex Richardson will be a guest speaker at the the 5th Annual Childcare Conference of the Galway City & County Childcare Committee on Saturday, 1 December 2007 in the Galway Bay Hotel. Mr. Fergus Finlay, Chief Executive, Barnardos will make a presentation on "Self-esteem and your children". Admission €10 (includes lunch). For information contact 091-752039 or e-mail Rosario@galwaychildcare.com

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

WORLD SEAFOOD CONGRESS

Fish oil supplements to enhance well-being FOR many people, achieving the desired amount of Omega-3 from fish can be difficult because not everyone likes eating oily fish a few times per week, so the best alternative is to take a high quality supplement. So if you are a one in four who takes a supplement, how do you decide the best one to choose? The simple answer is to know what to look for and to carefully examine the label. When choosing an Omega-3 supplement, ensure that it provides at least 500mg of EPA per dose. Scientists now agree that EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) is the essential fatty acid that plays a crucial role in providing us with ‘good eicosanoids’ hormonal type substances, which have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body, help with arthritis, stress, anxiety, mood, and heart health. Jack Kinsella, managing director of Shield Health, recommends MorEPA Smart Fats, as each capsule contains 580mgs of EPA ‘‘All you have to take is just one capsule per day. Even the outer shell is made

from fish,’’ he says. MorEPA and all products by Minami Nutrition are manufactured in a new patented environmentally friendly process which removes all impurities such as mercury, lead and dioxins from the fish oil. All saturated fats are also uniquely removed. This process is all carried out at temperatures below 500C and no chemicals are used in the purification process. All the fish oil used by Minami Nutrition is sourced from small, deep-sea fish caught in unspoilt waters. When you take everything into account, MorEPA is not only the purest and most convenient Omega-3 on the market, but is also the best value available, according to Kinsella. MorEPA Smart Fats and all Minami Omega-3 products are available from leading pharmacies and good health food shops, and can also be purchased on line at www.healthyandessential.ie Further infor mation from: Jack Kinsella at 045-892267.

PICTURES FROM THE CONGRESS

Tom Geoghegan of the Irish Fish Processors and Exporters Association and Inshore Ireland ’s Roger Cole sharing a joke.

Galway street theatre group MACNAS entertain delegates at WSC ’07.

FSAI endorses seafood as the best source of essential Omega-3 SPEAKING to Inshore Ireland on the role of Omega-3 as part of a healthy diet, Alan Reilly,

chief executive of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, said that seafood was the predomi-

nant source of this essential fatty acid. ‘‘Many of the speakers at the congress demonstrated the beneficial effect on child development when mothers consumed more than three portions of seafood per week,’’ he said.

DoH response Aim to eat one portion of oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel herring, sardines and trout) per week. One portion of white fish (such as cod or whiting) per week is also recommended. A portion is a piece of fish weighing 90 grams/3 ounces. * It is recommended that pregnant women should avoid shark, swordfish and marlin because they may contain high levels of mercury. Since tuna may also contain mercury, no more than two medium-sized cans 140g (5oz) drained weight or one fresh tuna steak 140g (5oz) cooked weight per week is recommended.* The advice on fish to avoid or limit is a food safety issue and was provided by the FSAI. *For those who do not eat oily fish, it is recommended to include other sources of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in the diet, such as small amounts of certain vegetable oils in cooking — rapeseed (canola), flaxseed, linseed and walnut oil. At the time of going to press, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food had not responded. *

Beneficial effects He added that these beneficial effects are associated with modest consumption of fish. ‘‘One or two servings per week of fish reduces the risk of coronary heart disease and overall mortality in the population.’’ In light of this strengthening evidence, Reilly stressed that the benefits of seafood consumption ‘outweigh risk to consumer health’ and that the health risk attributed to mercury was ‘overstated in most Government advisory notices’. He added that risk communication was a very complex task, especially when advising on issues relating to changing consumer behaviour. ‘‘The unintended consequences of advising pregnant women to limit consumption or to avoid a few of the larger species of predatory fish, such as shark and swordfish, is actually putting people off eating seafood altogether. ‘‘Now really the challenge in communicating food safety risks is to put the risk in context

INSHORE Ireland asked the Departments of Health and Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, to respond to comments by Dr Alan Reilly, (FSAI) and Dr Alex Richardson, Oxford University, regarding the Irish Government’s position on advice to pregnant women regarding the consumption of fish and seafood.

Alan Reilly, chief executive of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland.

and to frame that message so that the desired outcomes are achieved in terms of consumer behaviour. To date, Government agencies haven’t been doing that with really great success.’’ He added: ‘‘A lot of the

evidence that was presented at the conference would put women off eating fish altogether, which really isn’t where we want to be with respect to healthy eating and fish in the diet.’’

INSHORE IRELAND

November 2007

WORLD SEAFOOD CONGRESS

* From left: Ger Lynch, Westpoint Shellfish; Denis Minihane, Bantry Bay Seafoods; Catherine Morrison and Grainne O'Brien, BIM; John Hensey, Blackshell Farm, and Orla D'Arcy, Bantry Bay Seafoods Farm.

* Westport Shellfish Farm.

Ireland raises the bar on eco standards for aquaculture BIM has launched the world's first independently accredited eco-standard for aquaculture, the Irish Quality Eco-Mussel Standard, which it unveiled at the recent World Seafood Congress in Dublin. An extension of the existing Irish Quality Mussel Scheme, this standard is awarded to mussel growers and processors who meet a number of key criteria and follow strict environmental management practices in all aspects of their business.

The standard provides assurance that the mussels have been produced with due care for the environment, above and beyond all existing requirements, and is accredited to EN45011, the Gold Standard for product certification. High quality

According to Donal Maguire, BIM's aquaculture development manager, although eco-standards exist internationally: ``this is the world's first indepen-

dently accredited eco-standard for aquaculture and encourages production of an exceptionally high quality, sustainable product''. In conjunction with this event, Bantry Bay Seafoods Ltd also unveiled the first product farmed under the Irish Quality Eco-Mussel Standard, which is packaged under the BIM Eco-Label Standard. The Cork-based company is the first processor in Ireland to produce a product under the scheme's

stringent requirements. Blackshell Farm Ltd and Westpoint Shellfish Ltd, as suppliers to the processing sector, are among the first farms to be awarded the standard. According to Denis Minihan, Bantry Bay Seafood Ltd, environmental obligations must be adhered to. ``With consumers becoming more environmentally conscious in their buying habits and adopting more sustainable purchasing patterns, the Eco-

Standard and associate EcoLabel allow us to both differentiate our product and satisfy a consumer need, while also minimising our environmental impact and ensuring best practice management throughout the supply chain,'' he said. ``Top of mind is sustainability of seafood resources. By adhering to this stringent scheme, we are demonstrating Bantry Bay's commitment that we are following strict environmental management practices in

all aspects of our business. Promoting this is crucially important, particularly given that until now there has been no certification of this nature for aquaculture,'' he added. Salmon standard

A similar Quality Eco-Standard for Salmon has also been accredited, with particular interest identified in France and elsewhere, and product under the standard is expected to be available shortly.

Major advertising campaign to support

Seafood Circle

BIM has rolled out a 500,000 advertising and promotional campaign to promote seafood through its Seafood Circle initiative. The Seafood Circle identifies and recognises businesses that consistently deliver excellent seafood, product knowledge and service to their customers. Using the tagline, `From

Tide to Table Ă? a Superior

, and imagery featuring a seafood professional holding a tray of freshly-caught seafood, this major campaign promotes over 100 restaurants, pubs, hotels and seafood retailers from around Ireland who have met the criteria necessary to become a member of the Seafood Circle. Seafood Experience'

`CatchBack'

Almost 150 sites around the country featured 48-sheet posters. Regional press advertising and in-store promotional activ-

ity included a `CatchBack' competition in participating shops and restaurants. The competition allowed every purchaser of fresh seafood or a seafood main course to enter a daily draw to win back the equivalent value of seafood purchased. According to Jason Whooley, BIM chief executive, the organisation is confident that the ads have already made consumers aware of the hospitality venues and retailers that have made the effort required to meet the high standards required for membership.

mand by consistently delivering the very best of quality seafood and service,'' he said.

Demand

Demand for seafood in Ireland is significant and it is increasing. Total Irish sales of seafood in 2006 amounted to 724.6 million (excluding direct Irish landings at foreign ports), representing an increase of 9% on 2005. The main contributor to the rise in revenue was the ongoing rapid growth of the domestic market, with seafood sales to the retail sector valued at 158m, up 15% on 2005, and sales to food service vaPopularity lued at 205m, representing an ``The popularity of seafood is increase of 18%. growing as the consumer beOne of the key forecasts of comes increasingly aware of the Government-adopted Stratthe health benefits, the great egy for a Restructured, Susvariety on offer and the won- tainable and Profitable Irish derful taste. ``The Seafood Seafood Industry 2007-2013 is Circle members, located in that domestic sales of seafood both urban and rural areas are projected to increase by throughout the country, are 22% from 311m to 379m * Theresa Casey, Delgany, visits Moran's seafood specialists, to pick up her `Catchback' prize. critical to this increasing de- over the period to 2015.

INSHORE IRELAND November 2007

BIM and Irish Aquaculture

Harvesting the Best!

At BIM there is a commitment to develop an aquaculture industry we can all be proud of. Sustainable job creation in coastal communities integrating all members of the community is central to this pursuit. Through technical, financial, marketing and environmental/quality support services, BIM is actively engaged in promoting the most up to date and cost efficient aquaculture techniques, to produce quality seafood, consistent with the needs of environmental protection and conservation.

Quality products are crucial for successful marketing. To this end, the BIM environmental/ quality programme aims to promote the concepts of quality and environmental awareness with the development of codes of practice for finfish and shellfish, and the implementation of quality assurance schemes.

Financial support for pilot and commercial aquaculture ventures is available through European and BIM grant schemes for both existing farmers and new entrants.

So, what does all of this mean? Simply, that BIM offers a one stop shop for all your aquaculture development needs.

The financial support is complemented by technical expertise and training programmes on best husbandry practice for shellfish and finfish production drawing on home based and international expertise. BIMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technical programme is continuing to investigate the potential of novel species and new and innovative technology. Feasibility studies, site selection and evaluation are also part of our service.

If you would like further information you can contact BIMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aquaculture Development Division at: Tel: +353 1 2144100/Fax: +353 1 2841123 Email: aqua@bim.ie www.bim.ie