Inshore Ireland Vol nr 1 Feb 2009

Bimonthly

incorporating

News from the coast and inland waterways

Aquaculture Ireland

FRESHWATER ANGLING Catch the first salmon!

Pages 12-13

February 2009 Vol 5 Issue 1

INTERVIEW

A snapshot of Ireland's earth science agency

We talk with GSI director Dr Peadar McArdle: Pages 8-9

Comment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Aquaculture News . . . . . . 16 Ð 18 Your view . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Ð 7 Island living . . . . . . . . . 20 Ð 21 Freshwater focus . . . . . . 10 Ð 11 Marine R&D . . . . . . . . . . 22 Ð 23

Integrated Coastal Zone Management

Government abandons `model ICZM approach'

A

SHAY FENNELLY

ccording to a report published in 2004 Ð Review of In-

tegrated Coastal Zone Management & Principles of Best Practice (CMRC) and the subject of this paper's first lead story in January 2005 Ð there has been `no advances in policy or

legislative developments for ICZM since the publication of the draft policy for Ireland in 1997.'

And the ongoing cost and controversy surrounding the Corrib gas project is testament to the lack of an adequate framework to resolve coastal planning issues in Ireland.

The Government abandoned a model approach for

facilitating dialogue in relation to Integrated Coastal Zone Management, which, if implemented in 2003 with the Corrib gas project, could have reduced or even avoided the 13 million and rising Garda policing bill now facing the taxpayer.

Successive Ministers for the Marine in the meantime have failed to publish an ICZM Bill, despite `on the record' commitments in 2001 and 2003: * , DaÂil Debate 8 February 2001: ``The way is now becoming clear for bringing forward new frameworks which will focus on the interaction between different sectors, agencies and legal frameworks with a view to bringing about a more integrated and holistic approach to coastal zone management. It

MinisterFrankFahey

is the intention, in so far as my department's responsibilities are concerned, to have new legislation brought in next year.'' * , DaÂil Debates 7 October 2003: ``I have previously indicated my intention to publish in 2004 legislative proposals to consolidate and modernise the law on foreshore administration and to support the development and operation of more integrated approaches to the management of the coastal areas and their resources.''

Ironically, in February 2003, Government discontinued funding for the Bantry Bay Coastal Zone Management project, the first successful demonstration of its kind in Ireland.

LAST LEG of voyage

Minister Dermot Ahern

>> Page 2

The last leg to DuÂn Laoghaire, Co Dublin: The RV Keary in Dalkey Sound, Dublin Bay. Her journey began in a boatyard in Cape Town in 2007. She was delivered to Rotterdam by cargo ship and sailed to Dublin. See pages 14 and 15.

Photo G Mills

A new Dell around the coast - Jobs and Exports from Irish Aquaculture IFA Aquaculture Conference, Kenmare Bay Hotel, 19th March More Info Phone 01-4508755 or see the aquaculture page on www.ifa.ie To be followed on March 20th by The 9th Irish Shellfish Safety Workshop

2

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

NEWS

* From page 1 In November 2008, a Freedom of Information request

by Inshore Ireland to the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Food seeking access to all correspondence and memos on the reasons for refusing the funding elicited the following response: `The Department of Agriculture,

Fisheries

and

Food

(DAFF) no longer has responsibility CZM has

for

the

Project.

been

Bantry

This

function

transferred

Department

of

the

Bay

to

the

Environ-

ment, Heritage and Local Government under a Government decision

dated

4

November

Background to Integrated Coastal Zone Management

T

SHAY FENNELLY

Council and its partners, Uni-

leen Hegarty (towards a com-

quality. The loss of the Char-

versity

and

munity based approach to

ter, Dr Emerson noted, `will be

he Department

Cork Institute of Technology

Integrated Coastal Zone Man-

felt by all stakeholders. The

of

to develop the Bantry CZM

agement: A case study of

Government in Ireland seems

project.

Bantry Bay. M.Phil).

to have little grasp that the goal

the

Marine

and Natural Resources set up a Coastal Zone Ad-

College

Cork

Noel Dempsey, then Minister

for

the

Environment,

The project adopted an in-

of increased successful and

novative approach by invol-

positive public participation

ving

public

will not be achieved without a

maximum

ministrative Division in 1997.

launched

Depart-

The principle functions were

Coastal Zone Management Pi-

participation, working for

clear demonstration of genu-

ment has no statutory powers

to support the development of

consensus with the local com-

ine respect for public involve-

to

request.

lot Project in November 1997

sustainable coastal zone man-

munity and employing con-

ment'.

Fisheries Division of this De-

to develop a consensus-based

agement through new poli-

flict resolution techniques.

partment did advise the Free-

integrated coastal manage-

cies, plans and legislation

dom of Information Unit that

ment strategy. Cork Co Coun-

and through effective licen-

the functions were transferred,

cil

sing arrangements for the

however they

were unable to

foreshore, dumping at sea,

advise

to

which

and aquaculture.

that

this

2008.

Therefore,

deal

with

as

DHELG w as

this

your

t r an sf e r r e d

area

in

function t o .'

John

Gormley's secretary has informed Inshore Ireland that: ``Coastal

Zone

Management

still falls under the responsibility of

DAFF, and referred

us to the Department's website

To

encourage

States to develop ICZM in Europe, the EU funded demonstration

that

the

DHELG water quality section now has a brief for CZM. Its precise clear.''

role,

however,

is

not

project has estimated poli-

experienced

the area was accepted as hav-

cing costs of 13.5m. A gov-

difficulties in delivering on

ing an interest in the project

ernment-backed forum has

its responsibilities for the

and having a right to be

now been set up to address

environment, physical infra-

represented within it. Simi-

had

structure and planning within its jurisdiction.

The absence of any previously successful initiatives to ease local tensions perthis alternative approach.

environmental to

Cork

County

Since 2003, the Corrib Gas

Anyone with a `stake' in

gramme which supports inprojects)

understands

Bay

suaded the council to explore

v.ie/index.jsp?file=Fisheries/

land

Be-

Bantry

granted 700,000 (a LIFE pronovative

of going to press, Inshore Ire-

projects.

tween 1997 and 2000, the EU

h t t p : / / w w w . a g r i c u l t ur e . g o -

CoastalZone.xml. At the time

Member

the

The project grew out of a thesis by UCC graduate, Ai-

In February 2003, the government abandoned Integrated Coastal Zone Management and the reason has never been officially explained

larly,

regulatory

agencies

with a direct executive role locally were also considered stakeholders. All participants within the process were treated equally.

In 2000, the Bantry Bay CZM project became the Bantry Bay Charter. Effectively, this was a series of agreements among local people, sectoral groups and government agencies, and set out an overall vision of the area; principles for managing and developing it and over 200 distinct actions.

The Bantry Bay Charter

Marine Institute

Foras na Mara

www.marine.ie Your portal to marine research, monitoring, technology, development & innovation

Project won the prestigious National Planning Achievement Award 2000 (Irish Plan-

Noel Dempsey, then Minister for the Environment, launched the Bantry Bay Coastal Zone Management Pilot Project in November 1997 to develop a consensus-based integrated coastal management strategy.

takes'. These include a failure to consult adequately with the local community at the outset regarding the Corrib gas project, according to Minister Eamon Ryan in the Irish Times, 7 Nov 2008.

The statutory public con-

in April 2003.

Addressing a Coastal Zone Management Conference in Newfoundland in 2004, Charter facilitator, Dr Harriet

sultation period for the Corrib

project

during

which

written comments were submitted to the Department ended on December 28, 2001,

Emerson, outlined the rea-

just when the Bantry Charter

sons for its closure as follows:

was agreed.

government agencies to imple-

ashore in 2003. This has been

ment the Charter agreement.

set back to 2010 as the `fast

* A lack of commitment from

* The relatively poor record of

The

first

gas

was

due

track' approach failed due to

Government in effective colla-

unforeseen delays relating to

borative working

compulsory purchase orders,

*

Senior officers within the

concerns about environmen-

Marine Department were re-

tal impacts on fishing, plan-

luctant to engage meaning-

ning, safety, tourism, and

fully, and allow a flexible

designated special areas of

In February 2003, however,

approach to the conduct of its

conservation sites.

the project office closed due

core responsibilities, in order

to a lack of funding.

to achieve improvements.

ning

Institute)

for

its

innovative approach.

SUPPORT

``I regret that there are no

* The sceptical support of the

funds available to my Depart-

mussel farmers in Bantry Bay,

ment to support the work of

who stood to gain more than

the Bantry Bay Charter,''

most from greater emphasis

Minister Dermot Ahern said

on improvements to water

In February 2003, the government

abandoned

grated

Coastal

InteZone

Management and the reason has never been officially explained.

* See also page 22

CMRC comment on ICZM

T

he first ICoNet (Irish

would be done by outlining

recession, the need for an

Coastal

the options, informed by

innovative approach to un-

(To-

best international practice,

locking

the

potential

wards the Sustainable De-

for putting in place a mod-

co a sta l

a nd

m ari n e

velopment

Ne twork)

Conference of

Ireland's

of re -

ernised legislative frame-

sources is greater now than

Coast), held in UCC in April

work

improved

ever. At present, Ireland

2007, represented a mile-

systems and procedures for

derives <1% GDP from the

stone for sharing informa-

Coastal Zone Management,

maritime sector (compared

tion among coastal policy

which will best fit the med-

with UK 5%, Denmark 11%,

makers,

ium to long term require-

Norway 20%). Yet we know

ments in this area'.

that there is considerable

practitioners,

scientists and coastal communities. It also served as

potential to be derived from

an important catalyst in

structuring that ensued, fol-

activities such as ocean en-

focusing attention on activ-

lowing a cabinet decision in

ergy, which recently bene-

ities in the CZM division of

the summer of 2007, meant

fited

the

of

that progress in relation to

government investment.

Communications, Marine

the much needed ICZM re-

A joined approach, un-

and

Resources

view came to an abrupt

derpinned by adequate fore-

(DCMNR), which provided

halt. This was just one ca-

shore

sponsorship

sualty of a process that

decision making processes

then

Department

Natural

towards the

Th e

and

re -

event.

d e p ar t m e n t a l

from

a

26m

legislation

and

resulted in the dilution of

is crucial to unlock the

outcome

governance structures for

potential of these initia-

was a conference announce-

dealing with the coastal

tives, and to avoid the mis-

ment by the DCMNR of a

and marine environment

takes of the past such as

Call for Tenders to `Under-

among

govern-

those that led to the Corrib

take a strategic review of

ment departments, leading

controversy. It is time for

the legislative framework,

to

`disintegrated

an overhaul of our coastal

structures, and procedures

coastal zone management'

planning system and a fresh

in

in Ireland.

examination of what ICZM

A

Marine Institute Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway telephone +353 91 387 200 facsimile +353 91 387 201 email institute.mail@marine.ie

some of the `undoubted mis-

significant

place

to

manage

the

State-owned foreshore. This

multiple

further

In an era of economic

can deliver for Ireland.

INSHORE IRELAND

February 2009

3

NEWS

Fishing interests react angrily to mackerel quota

R

GILLIAN MILLS EDITOR eacting `with dismay' to the Fisheries Minister's decision to allocate 90% of Ireland's increased mackerel quota for 2009 to the Killybegs-based RSW fleet, chief executive of the Irish South & West Fishermen's Organisation, Gerard O'Flynn said there had been `strong expectation' that Minister Killeen would recognise the economic value of providing broader access to the increase mackerel quota.

Fishermen and fish processors in Baltimore, Castletownbere, Dingle and Ros a MhõÂl had argued for an equitable share-out of the 33% increase in the Irish mackerel quota. ``This `polyvalent sector', consisting of a much larger number of vessels, (than the RSW sector), will share an increase of only 1,500 tonnes or 13% of the overall national mackerel quota,'' he said.

REAL OPPORTUNITY

He added this was a `very real opportunity' to both protect and generate employment in isolated coastal communities.

The degree of anger and disappointment should not be underestimated.

``By any stretch of the imagination, this decision does not make economic sense.

The quota is poorly distributed and the RSW boats, due to their range and size, may well exercise their option to land much of their mackerel quota in other countries, thus negating any capacity to generate additional jobs through processing in Ireland,'' he added.

DAFF RESPONSE

invited the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to respond, and received the following statement: Inshore Ireland

rangement was last deter-

represented 10% of the Irish

It is important to note that the

allocation for Ireland, any in-

mined.

Following representations

quota at that time. The value of the additional allocation is

mackerel quota is of substantial importance to the Donegal

crease in the allocation to the polyvalent fishing boats must

made in relation to the share

likely to be of the order of 2m

based pelagic industry, which

be at the expense of those vessels

out of mackerel, the Minister

per annum to the fishermen and

is completely dependent on pe-

based in Donegal, and accord-

organised a meeting with all interested parties on 26 Novem-

considerably more to the processors.

lagic fish stocks, such as mackerel, and do not have any access

ber to hear the case for a

This allocation for 2009 in-

to whitefish, prawn and other

ingly changes in allocation arrangement must take account of the importance of fishing in

continuation of the current ar-

volves a 22.3% increase in the

stocks, which are available to

both the south-west and the

rangements and for granting to the polyvalent fleet an increased

allocation to the polyvalent segment.

the polyvalent vessels.

As the mackerel quota is a set

north-west and balance the interests of both communities.

share of the 2009 mackerel quota.

Strong and comprehensive presentations were made at that meeting by the Irish South and West Fish Producers Organisation (IS&WFO), and the Killy b e g s

F i s h e r m e n ' s

Organisation (KFO) in respect

Since 2001 the polyvalent (multi-purpose) vessels have

of both proposals.

Following the meeting, the

had an allocation of 7,000

Minister requested clarifica-

tonnes of mackerel from Ire-

tion and additional informa-

land's quota.

This 7,000 tonnes represented

tion from both parties, which were received.

10% of the Irish quota when the

The Minister examined the

arrangements were agreed (2001).

cases made and considered in detail the issues arising. Fol-

In all years, except 2002, the

lowing this full consideration,

Irish mackerel quota has fallen

the Minister decided to intro-

well below the 2001 level (as low as 46,000 in 2005), and the

duce new arrangements for the share out of mackerel for 2009

allocation to the polyvalent

and future years.

segment has remained at the

Under the new arrange-

set level of 7,000 tonnes.

The cuts in the quota each

ments, the polyvalent segment will be allocated 13% of the

year were borne in total by the

mackerel quota.

RSW Pelagic segment vessels.

In 2009, the mackerel quota

For 2009, this will involve a total allocation of 8,562 tonnes

has been increased to 66,068

for the polyvalent fleet rather

tonnes, below that of the 2001

than the 7,000 tonne set alloca-

level when the share out ar-

tion in place, heretofore, which

Lack of marine department is stymieing sector development

T

he chairman of the Marine Industry Federation has said that hundreds of jobs could be created in the marine industry, if the government stopped ignoring it.

At the opening of the National Boat Show in Dublin last week, David O'Brien, called on the government to

support those who want to invest and create jobs in the sector.

Mr O'Brien said that interested parties were being blocked by the lack of a Department of the Marine and frustrated by having to deal with sections of the marine that were spread across several Government depart-

ments. Opening the show, Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Eamon O Cuiv, pledged that his department would do `what it could' to unlock that potential. He said the country's most overlooked natural resource was the ocean and the marine leisure sector was a potential goldmine of jobs.

1979 - 2009

30 YEARS

2009

AQUA NOR

International Exhibition 18 - 21 August 2009 Trondheim Nor way

for aquaculture industry

AQUA NOR - The important international venue for the aquaculture industry through a period of 30 years.

At Aqua Nor 2009 a large number of exhibitors will introduce novelties in the fields of research, technology, fish feed, fish health, training, funding, environmental protection etc.

In connection with Aqua Nor, international conferences will discuss progress and challenges in research and aquaculture.

Welcome to Aqua Nor 2009, as exhibitor, visitor or as conference participant. more at: www.nor-fishing.no

CONFERENSE AND ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ACUACULTURE SOCIETY 14-17 AUGUST 2009 www.easonline.org

INTERNATIONAL AQUACULTURE BIOSECURITY CONFERENCE 17-18 AUGUST 2009 www.iabconference.org

Organizer: The Nor-Fishing Foundation Klostergata 90, NO-7030 Trondheim, Tel +47 73 56 86 40, Fax +47 73 56 86 41, mailbox@nor-fishing.no

4

NEWS

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

ISMIG report recommends better labelling to identify Irish seafood THE Irish Seafood Marketing Initiative Group (ISMIG) has published its recommendations in response to industry concerns regarding falling prices, rising fuel costs and the impact of imports on the demand for Irish-sourced fish. The recommendations focus on awareness, labelling and route to market.

The group noted an apparent lack of consumer aware-

ness of the range of Irish fish available (salmon and cod account for 60% of the domestic market), as well as a lack of awareness of imported fish versus Irish caught or farmed fish, arising from labelling issues.

The report recommends that through an expansion of BIM's Quality Seafood Programme (QSP), Irish seafood will become more easily iden-

tified and differentiated. The initiative will also work to have seafood included in the draft proposal being prepared by the European Commission aimed at consolidating and upgrading food labelling legislation.

The group highlighted the difficulties of competing against imported products, while also acknowledging the needs of retailers to en-

is published bimonthly by the Agricultural Trust, publishers of the Irish Farmers Journal and The Irish Field, Irish Farm Centre, Bluebell, Dublin 12 Editor

Gillian Mills mills@inshore-ireland.com

01-2354804/087-2902045 Features editor

Gery Flynn

flynn@inshore-ireland.com

091-844822/085-7475797

Production & imaging

Irish Farmers Journal

Advertising manager

Roger Cole

cole@inshore-ireland.com

01-2859111/087-2611597 Advertising: Northern Ireland

Wendy Scott scott@inshore-ireland.com (RoI) 048-9185 7721 the Irish Times, 24 - 28 Tara Street, Dublin 2 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.

Printed by

ister Killeen noted that now, more than ever, Ireland needs to underpin and bolster indigenous industries. ``Despite the global economic downturn, our natural resources remain, and by actioning these recommendations, we can help to secure the important role the seafood sector plays in our economy,'' he said.

BIM CEO, Jason Whooley,

said the analysis clearly highlighted the lack of consumer awareness of the range of Irish seafood available: ``What is required now is a concerted effort across the sector to highlight this indigenous resource, encourage consumers to be open minded in their purchase and reassure them that purchasing Irish seafood can help secure Irish jobs.''

cause before we didn't believe we could compete. This confidence will benefit us by realising the potential of the country,'' he said.

The conference highlighted what was available and what could be achieved within the Dundalk region.

The talk was divided into three main sections: development and the potential of sustainable energy, tourism, and logistics within the area.

Conference chair John Campion of ESB outlined the 15-year 22bn capital investment programme the company proposes to support the transition from oil/gas fuelled electricity to green energy, and outlined his vision for electric transport and the required supporting

infrastructure that Dundalk could provide.

Brendan Halligan of Sustainable Energy Ireland said Dundalk had the potential to lead the way in sustainable energy as a Centre of Excellence. He believes Dundalk has the capability to develop structures, such as 40-storey high wind turbines, from a re-generated Greenore Port.

In the second session of the day, Brendan McSherry, Louth's heritage officer ,highlighted the natural resources Dundalk has to offer, and James Orr of Castle Espie Wetlands Centre demonstrated the value of capitalizing and regenerating local resources.

Dr Lemon, a geologist with Marble Arch caves, a site that

has been awarded Geopark status, explained the value of becoming a Geopark.

The final session concentrated on logistics, and presentations highlighted the potential that existed in the Dundalk region and explained how this industry can be developed.

Rod McCarthy, operations director of Danwood, gave Dundalk a very powerful reference.

He said Dundalk's location, infrastructure and people were the difference that brought them to the area.

Another example of ``using what you've got'', he said.

For further information on the conference and presentations delivered, go to www.dundalkchamber.ie

Using what you've got: job prospects for Dundalk `S WENDY SCOTT

Inshore Ireland

sure that continuous supplies are available to meet market demand.

Though they recognised the importance of traditional industry company structures, the group said they were a key constraint for the development of the Irish market.

BIM is to take the lead role in tabling proposals to develop a route to market strategy.

Welcoming the report, Min-

ustainable jobs for Dundalk and beyond', the fifth in a series of conferences held by the Dundalk Chamber, focused on the region's location for the development of sustainable energy initiatives linked to tourism, and how they hope to become sector leaders in logistics.

In the welcome address, Senator Dan Boyle of the Green Party said that due to the downturn in the economy ``things have to change. Business as usual is not an option''.

He added that as a result of the Celtic Tiger, ``what we gained was confidence, be-

February 2009

5

COMMENT tnemmoC

INSHORE IRELAND

Discarding the volunteers a kick in the teeth

T

he re-centralisation of Inland Fisheries administration in the Republic of Ireland has been mooted for several years.

The 2003 Farrell Grant Sparks report, which cost 0.14m, recommended the formation of a National Inland Fisheries Authority that would incorporate personnel from the Central and Regional Fisheries Boards (RFBs) and would involve the dissolution of the Regional Fisheries Boards as currently constituted. The thinking was that this move would result in economic savings and smoother administration for the sector.

The annual State budget for the sector is about 35.3m ( 28.6m by way of state grant and 6.7m in the form of other sources of revenue, according to the Annual Report of the Central Fisheries Board for 2007). I was surprised to learn recently that the dissolution of the RFB's would only result in an annual saving of roughly 0.3m (or

0.85% of the annual Inland Fisheries budget).

At a time when government ministers are calling for patriotic endeavour, it is ironic that the first port of cull on the part of one minister involves the dissolution of seven RFBs whose members, numbering approximately 140, do not receive any fees for their voluntary efforts in the interests of inland fisheries in this country. They do claim expenses incurred in the execution of their functions, and I have no problem with that.

The reality is that the government has agencies and quangos up and down the country where board members are receiving fees and expenses that dwarf the costs incurred by members of the RBDs I have often had difficulty with the organisation, operation and attitude of RFBs and their members. I have had to abide by decisions made by them that were not particularly favourable to privately-

LETTER: Myth of global warming Pat O'Brien, Lower Woodlands Kerry Pike, Co Cork

WHAT if the whole notion of global warming is a hoax?

That indeed is supported by the findings of astrophysicist Dr Pers Corbyn UK who questions the somewhat dubious scientific claims regarding global warming.

Indeed, there is no evidence that mankind has been responsible for the rise in global temperatures. Rather, carbon dioxide emissions have been a boon for the environment, accelerating the growth rate of plants and enabling plants to grow in drier regions.

Interestingly, water vapour, which comprises 60% of the suite of greenhouse gases, 20% carbon dioxide, and remaining 20% comprising methane, nitrous oxide, ozone and several other trace gas species, is never featured in the global warming debate.

The myth of `global warming' starts with an accurate observation: The amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is rising. It is now about 360 parts per million, versusth290 at the beginning of the 20 century. Reasonable estimates indicate that it may eventually rise as high as 600 parts per million.

Earth's oceans and land hold 50 times as much carbon dioxide as is in the atmosphere, and movement between these reservoirs of There is no evidence that mankind has been responsible for the rise in global temperatures

@

carbon dioxide is poorly understood. The observed rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide corresponds with the time of human release and equals about half of the amount released. The global-warming hypothesis, however, is no longer tenable. Scientists have been able to test it carefully, and it does not hold up.

During the past 60 years, as atmospheric carbon dioxide levels have risen, scientists have made precise measurements of atmospheric temperature. These measurements have shown that major atmospheric greenhouse warming of the atmosphere is not occurring, and is unlikely to occur.

What is glaringly obvious from published research is that the life changing phenomenon of global warming and cooling is almost entirely natural, and therefore beyond our effective control.

Attempts to prevent global warming will be as useless as efforts made to control movements of the earth's tectonic plates, to prevent earthquakes, or to try and move the moon closer to earth for shorter commuting. th All efforts of the 20 and 21st centuries should be to properly plan and implement sound strategies to exploit fully the accepted notion that natural global warming is an inevitable cyclical phenomenon. In Ireland, An Taoiseach Brian Cowen says that the hard pressed Irish taxpayer will have to fork out money to combat the spurious climate change events, despite the fact that the Irish economy is in free fall. At best, the EU is forcing changes and costs on our society based on highly contested scientific claims, and governments such as Ireland and Britain are going along with this.

Please send your letters to mills@inshore-Ireland.com

owned recreational and commercial salmon fisheries. Nonetheless, we live in a democracy, and we all have to learn to live with democratic decisions whether we like them or not.

I like the fact that most members of the seven RFBs are democratically elected by their sectoral colleagues, drift-net fishermen and draft-net fishermen, provide their services voluntarily, and are regionally based.

Ministerial nominees to boards are not democratically elected, but nevertheless provide their services voluntarily. They also receive expenses, as do the elected members.

The move to dissolve the RFBs is a kick in the teeth for volunteerism and a vote for re-centralisation.

I recall the 1980 Fisheries Act that set up the Central and Regional Fisheries Boards.

The personnel of the then 17 Boards of Conservators (fisheries protection person-

OBITUARY

Dr Eric Edwards OBE, 1935 - 2009

I

magine you're a lowly research student seeking to look up information in the library of the Shellfish Laboratory at Burnham-OnCrouch in Essex. Then imagine your surprise on arriving at the railway station there to be greeted by none other than the Director himself Ð the world renowned expert in all matters shellfish Ð completewith a widesmile, a firm handshake and the offer of a cup of tea after your long train trip.

That was my first of many encounters with Dr Eric Edwards OBE, a man who always had time for everyone, a great friend and mentor to many in the British and Irish shellfish industries, and who passed away on January 13 after a short illness.

Eric was born in Wales in 1935 and started work at six-

teen at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF) shellfish hatchery at Conwy. From there, he moved to the MAFF facilities at Burnham-On-Crouch, and in the 1970s was brought to Ireland by BIM chairman, Brendan O'Kelly, to set up its new Resource Development Section.

He was a friend and mentor to everyone he worked with at BIM, including Dr Tony Meaney (who went on to be CEO of BIM), to Dick Bates (who now works with the European Commission in Brussels) and to me.

But most of all, he was friend and adviser to the hundreds of fishermen he met in the course of his work, and was never happier than when he was kitted out in wellies and mud-covered oilskins on the deck of a fishing boat, chatting about shellfish with those whose livelihoods depended on them.

In 1982, he became director of the Shellfish Association of Great Britain, and in the

nel) and the Inland Fisheries Trust (fisheries development personnel) joined the CFB/ RFB complex under a programme of regionalisation. The RFBs effectively became autonomous which, in many ways, has led to current government thinking of re-centralisation and re-couping of control which this entails. Thus ends the democratisation of the inland fisheries sector.

The government wants to save money expended in the administration of this sector. Very little money will be saved by discarding the volunteers. Like much else in society, services given freely are often little appreciated.

As a practitioner in the inland fisheries sector I would like to put on record my appreciation of the voluntary contribution made by RFB members over the past quarter of a century and wish them all well in the future. Ð DR MARTIN O'FARRELL

eighteen years that he held that post, doubled the membership and championed the cause of the shellfish industry across the world. For this and his `service to the British fishing industry' he was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1991 and was honoured as a Freeman of the City of London.

Eric was a brilliant communicator, a keen photographer and a tireless journalist whose `On the Shellfish Scene' column ran in Britain trade press up until the time

he died. He helped shape not only the British and Irish shellfish industries, but also the work ethic of everyone he came into contact with.

Speaking of how he used to enjoy meeting with BIM staff informally over the weekends in a Dublin pub to discuss plans for the following week's activities, I remember him saying ``Well, it wasn't really work, was it? It was too much fun to be a job.''

We'll miss him. Ð JOHN JOYCE

Publication dates for 2009 • February 26th • April 30th • June 25th

• August 27 • October 29 • December 17

To advertise in Inshore Ireland contact:

Roger Cole Email: cole@inshore-ireland.ie Tel: (01) 285 9111 / 284 1544 or 087-2611579

Wendy Scott Email: scott@inshore-ireland.com Tel: (ROI 048) 91 857721 / 0044 28 91 857721

Inshore Ireland is distributed to the coastal and inland waterway regions throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland

6

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

YOURVIEW

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

Is it a case of stealth tax dressed up as a conservation stamp?

MARTIN O'FARRELL

T

he December 2008 issue of Inshore Ireland carried an article entitled `Re-investment of licence fees in recovery bid of salmon stocks'. I found the article of interest and set about researching other projects funded by the `conservation stamp' and recorded in the Central Fisheries Board Annual Report 2007.

To recap: Since 2007, a `conservation stamp' has been added to each salmon angling licence issued by the State, the purpose of which is to fund the rehabilitation of rivers determined to be below salmon conservation limits.

The stamp effected a doubling of the price of each salmon licence. For example, an `all-district' licence costing

64 in 2006 cost 128 in 2007 (split 50:50 between the licence and the stamp). In 2009, the `all-district' licence costs 134 (including 67 conservation stamp).

The Central Fisheries Board was tasked with coordinating the preparation and implementation of the programme, giving priority to rivers below their conservation limits in special areas of conservation and which were assessed to have the greatest prospect of recovery.

An Implementation Committee comprising representatives from the CFB, Shannon Regional Fisheries Board and North Western Regional Fisheries Board received project proposals from the Regional Fisheries Boards.

The first allocation of fund-

IP R C S B U S

T

ing took place in early October 2007 when 181,275 was distributed to the RFBs on the basis of the project scores (Table 5 in CFB Annual Report for 2007). The second was allocated in December 2007 and on this occasion, 160,728 was allocated between the RFBs (Table 6 of CFB Annual Report for 2007).

Due to the timing of the funding, it was not possible to allocate all the funds to physical enhancement projects so a sum of 200,000 was retained by the CFB for `worthwhile scientific investigative projects' suggested by their fishery scientists.

The conservation stamp fund reached 636,014 at the end of 2007 and the remaining 94,011 is not accounted for in the CFB Annual Report for 2007.

It is noteworthy from Tables 5 and 6 that several of the rivers on which funded projects were carried out are above their conservation limits and are open for salmon angling (e.g. Costello, Erriff, Owenmore, Screebe, Kerry Blackwater).

Also, to my mind, there is a dearth of imagination associated with the projects being funded. Most come under a basic programme comprising bank protection/bank stabilisation/bankside work/pruning and enhancement/bank clearance/fencing etc).

One project stands out. The Kerry Blackwater Ð a Stateowned fishery which is assessed to be above its salmon conservation limit but nevertheless received 64,000 for `bankside work'.

I would like to see the fund opened up to universities and

the private sector who would be invited to submit project proposals that would then be assessed by an independent committee. The State sector would also have to compete for funds to ensure that the best possible use was being made of this funding.

In years to come, the fund will be worth several million euro. Anglers purchasing a salmon licence (58% of whom are Irish according to 2007 statistics) may want to know how the funds were spent and if they were spent wisely.

I recall the Tourism Angling Measure funds (19941999) which amounted to IR£14m ( 17.8m). The programme was administered by the CFB and the bulk of the fund went to the State sector (75% EU funding: 25% Exchequer funding being the norm for non-private sector

projects). I would suggest that better use should have been made of the EU TAM funds.

I would encourage the Central Fisheries Board to make the best possible use of `conservation stamp' funds to ensure that we have something to show for expenditure in years to come.

I have seen river channels that were `enhanced' during the 1994 to 1999 period by the addition of gravels/boulders and the erection of fences to protect the riparian zone from farm animal encroachment etc.

These channels are now completely overgrown and `tunnelled' and perhaps even less productive in a fisheries sense than they were prior to their enhancement. Capital works undertaken in and adjacent to river channels must be maintained.

S N IO

Inshore Ireland is a marine/freshwater newspaper produced 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 waterwaysunder the following headings: • Aquaculture • Island life • Inshore fisheries

• Water management • Policy and regulation • Engineering & technology

• Research and development • Seafood marketing and retail

Inshore Ireland has a circulation of 35,000 copies. 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 nd.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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Roger Cole 01 2841544 / 087 2611597 cole@inshore-ireland.com Wendy Scott (NI) (ROI 048) 91 857721 / 0044 28 91 857721 scott@inshore-ireland.com

PREPARING FOR THE STOR FOR M

* The Commissio An Irish Coast ners of Irish Lights’ vessel Guard helicopter Granuaile lands keeps a watchful engineers on Mallagh rock eye from above. near Arranmore

• February

Britain €35

• April

Vol 4 Issue 5

Licensing debacle is brou ough ghtt to Leinster House

INSHORE IRELAND SUBSCRIPTION RATES Dem

Ireland €30

October 2008

Freshwater Focus ..........

Aquaculture . . . . 10 — News . . . .

11 ....

Island Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 — 19 Marine R&D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 ........

22 — 24

ise of

Island to carry

out essential

repairs ahead

IFA Aquacultu a special hearingre secured Joint Oireachtas with the tee on AgriculturCommite Fisheries and October in Food on 15 ´ ireann a E Éireann to raise the Dáil aquaculture crisis in the sector. The delegation, led

by Richie Flynn, IFA Aquaculture, told the Committe e that the Governme tion, apathy nt’s ‘‘inactowards the and hostility’’ aquaculture industry 2,000 jobs was c osting rural areas. in peripheral The delegatio n explained the unique potential the sector offered to create new wealth; stimulate the coastal economy; drive down and add to unemployment payments. the balance of ‘‘It is an food industry indigenou s tainable natural using susresources to meet the sophisticated,demands of a health-conscious consumer market.

The sector has the potential to create time jobs if 2,000 fullment sticks the Government in the to its commitCawley Plan,’’ Richie Flynn, culture executiveIFA Aquasecretary, told Inshore Ireland.

Taighde Mar a —€45 ore thanRest European Unionm€40 ofssWorld job lo

By Gery Flynn

of forecasted bad weather.

Photo: J Rafferty

es?

• June • August • October • December ÚDARÁS na Gaeltacht research subsidiar a’s y, Taighde decision to jettison its with disbelief marine and disappoin Mara Teo (TMT), nity. has tment by the aquaculturebeen met commu-

A statement tacht developm from the Gael- marine sector that ‘a decisionent agency states It continues:in recent years.’ to discontinu the activities ‘Taighde Mara expertise now available e has, for the most part, organisations followed an of Taighde Mara a from provided ine such consultancy future in light assessment of its funding service with Institute and as the Marof changes in little NUI the purposes.available for research Martin-Ryan-Institut Galway’s e, with The wide range research unit in Carna, and its of the * To page

2

* To page

19

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Photographs taken from a footbridge on the Slaheny River, Co. Kerry in 2002 and 2005. Note the changes in the distribution of boulders in the stream bed and in the flow patterns of the stream section. The power of water usually undoes our best efforts at riverbed management. When it comes to bankside management, time usually undoes our initial efforts. There are examples throughout the country of failure to maintain initial bankside management efforts. Photo: M O'Farrell

INSHORE IRELAND

February 2009

7

INSHORE FISHERIES

Cormorant numbers to be reduced

BIM AT THE IRISH SKIPPER EXPO 2009

Seminar to debate O three major themes

JOHN RAFFERTY

T

INSHORE FISHERIES MANAGEMENT Managing access to the Irish lobster fishery

Changes to access management to the Irish lobster fishery were proposed in a consultation document launched in April 2008. Stakeholders provided extensive feedback at the 16 regional consultation meetings and more than 70 written submissions were received.

An exhaustive analysis of this feedback highlighted concerns regarding the original proposal and a potential solution that would address these concerns was evident.

As a result, the April 2008 proposal has been modified to incorporate stakeholder viewpoints, and a revised mechanism to manage access

to the Irish lobster fishery will be presented.

Environmental Designations

There are now a large number of coastal areas with various environmental designations and these have presented particular challenges for a number of Irish inshore fisheries. The experience of `The Wash' Ð a major European conservation site and home to a number of major inshore fisheries, will be examined with particular emphasis on the management changes required to allow these fisheries to continue.

Improving Stock Knowledge

The results of the national lobster V-notching programme, 2001 to 2008, will be presented and the programme for the coming year explained. In addition, the importance of the BIM sentinel programme in collecting detailed information on our most important fisheries will be emphasised in a presentation outlining planned activities for 2009.

INCREASING VALUE Marketplace Differentiation

The experience of fishermen using the EMS (Environmental Management Systems) approach to address consumer concerns about the ethics of their seafood will be described by one of its practit ion e r s. S im i la r l y, t h e success of Cornish inshore fishermen in engaging with consumers through an innovative website describing the

Sea anglers in Arranmore Bay.

seafood they land will provide an example that Irish inshore fishermen may wish to emulate.

Consumer Demands

Given the capability of inshore vessels to land `day fresh' fish and shellfish, it is surprising that it is rarely seen on Irish restaurant menus. BIM's market and business development division work with the food service industry to promote Irish seafood and is pleased to introduce Brid Torrades, a Sligo-based chef and member of Euro-toques who will describe where there may be opportunities in this market.

Increasing Value

The role and extent of longterm holding of live shellfish to attain optimum prices in the market will be examined and a new training initiative to assist operators described.

PROMOTING SAFETY Safety at Sea

A particular focus will be fishing vessel safety and a range of speakers from BIM will outline requirements, give advice Ð in particular on stability and PFDs Ð and describe actual incidents that are relevant to all fishermen.

Details of training courses, safety equipment and grant aid programmes will be detailed at the BIM stand and in the Coastal Training Unit which will be located in the car park, and at a seminar on Friday morning.

Photo: J Rafferty

Quotas for sea angling catches THE European Commission has drawn up a proposal to introduce quotas on sea angling catches and, if imple-

mented, this could have a serious effect on tourist earnings from angling, Sea n O'Neachtain MEP has said.

According to the Commission, the proposal is neces-

sary due to falling fish stocks.

The proposal, if accepted, will see controls on sea and shore angling whereby catches will be deducted from commercial fish quotas.

Cormorants are blamed for widespread decimation of fish stocks.

Photo: J Rafferty

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opean Anglers Alliance) a lot of work went into the report. ``We have had to present a very reasoned argument against some strong opposition from the bird lobby Ð particularly when they have used emotive headlines from European angling magazines as an argument against a European Cormorant Action Plan. ``But we remained confident that there was overwhelming evidence that something needed to be done to find a solution that helped to conserve fish stocks while at the same time providing the appropriate levels of protection for cormorants and we were right as the outcome shows.''

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he 2009 BIM semi nar pr ogramme aims to inform and debate topics relevant to the Irish fishing industry. Presentations will focus on three themes: * Inshore fisheries management * Increasing value and * Safety at sea.

The speaker line-up includes industry personnel who will give an account of the projects on which they have worked in partnership with BIM. Overseas speakers will also present their experiences on relevant topics of interest to the Irish fishing industry.

ne of the most important decisions in European angling history took place last month when the European Parliament endorsed a pan-European Cormorant Management Plan to minimise the increasing impact of cormorants on fish stocks, fishing and aquaculture.

Cormorants are being blamed for causing widespread devastation to fish stocks, thereby affecting the quality of recreational angling in Europe. There are approximately 25 million recreational anglers in Europe and angling generates approximately 25bn in socioeconomic value and supports over 100,000 jobs across EU. In many fisheries in Ireland, anglers have recorded an average consumption of 10 stocked trout per-bird perday. A paper by GA Kennedy and JE Greer, entitled Predation by cormorants, Phalacrocorax carbo (L), on the salmonid populations of an Irish river, describes predation on the River Bush, Co Antrim, where up to 264 birds fed on salmon smolts migrating to sea. Some of the birds consumed up to 12 smolts in a single sitting.

According to the Kindermann Report, the cormorant population, which has grown

twenty-fold over the past 25 years, is now estimated at 1.8 million birds.

Each bird has a daily consumption of 400g to 600g of fish; cormorants take more than 300,000 tonnes of fish from European waters every year.

In many Member States, this is many times greater than the volume of edible fish produced by professional inland fishermen and fish farmers. This figure of 300, 000 tonnes is more, for example, than the combined fish production from aquaculture of France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Hungary and the Czech Republic.

According to Jan Kappel, secretary general, EAA (Eur-

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8

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

INTERVIEW

A snapshot of Ireland's earth science agency GERY FLYNN FEATURES EDITOR

s director of the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) for the last seventeen years, Dr Peadar McArdle has managed to steer the agency on a new course to give the public a greater awareness of the potential economic benefits of the marine environment.

After receiving a primary degree in geology from UCD in the early 1970s, McArdle continued with postgraduate research before heading to Africa, where he gained invaluable experience as a young geologist with the national survey of Malawi.

On his return to Ireland, he spent a short time in the private sector with Silvermines before joining the Geo-

A

Q&A

THE GSI was one of the first national geological surveys established anywhere in the world, second only to the British Geological Survey.

At that time, it was effectively finding quarries and small mineral workings Ð mainly on big estates.

However, over the years, our role has expanded enormously, and we are now multi-sectoral. We apply geoscience in all kinds of areas: infrastructure, natural resources, environment and so forth, and of course, that includes the marine environment.

We do not claim to have started marine geology in Ireland Ð that honour goes to Alexander Nimmo. Systematic surveying began in the early 20th century, between 1900 and 1906, with sampling off the west coast of Ireland with the .

A lot of discoveries were made then, including the existence of relatively young sediments offshore that didn't appear onshore. That

Helga

DEVELOPMENTS

``We are witnessing huge developments in seabed surveying, in particular. We have put a lot of effort into supporting and trying to work with a variety of partners in the whole area of geoscience, in order to build capacity, so as to provide excellent services, and research that Ireland can benefit from,'' he explained.

In this regard, McArdle praised Peter Heffernan of the Marine Institute and the GSI's own late Ray Keary, both of whom he credits with

had significance later on for oil exploration.

THE GSI co-operates with many different bodies Ð in particular the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland.

What is the extent and nature of this work in relation to the water environment?

IN a North-South context, we have a strong relationship with the GSNI Ð especially as regards developing the National Geoscience Programme, which is an integrated vision of the benefits of geoscience investment.

It sets out objectives in areas such as services, research education and outreach, and recognises that the sector accounts for 4% of GNP and about 1.5% of national employment in areas such as mining, energy and aggregates. The sector also serves a range of extractive industries, such as zinc and salt mining, the quarrying of aggregates and offshore gas production.

HOW does the Geoscience Programme impact on the marine?

THE Programme is focused on the need for near-shore surveying, which eventually lead to the INFOMAR Project (Integrated Mapping For the Sustainable Development of Ireland's Marine Resource).

That aim was underpinned about a year ago, when Ministers Nigel Dodds and Eamon Ryan signed an agreement on North-South co-operation to facilitate bet-

having spearheaded the current interest and excitement that the marine environment offers.

Despite the GSI's relatively low public profile, McArdle is nevertheless clearly proud of the work that the agency undertakes. ``GSI is a lean organisation, and we are relatively small.

Nevertheless, we're very focused on what we do, and that work is very relevant,'' he said.

Since becoming director in 1992, McArdle has focused on the needs of a modern-day geological survey ter services in areas such as water supply, infrastructure development, mineral exploration and tourism.

This sets out a good framework that we've worked on since, and staff from both Surveys co-operate closely on common key issues.

selffuR divaD :SOTOHP

THE GSI was founded in 1845, but when did it first undertake marine surveying?

logical Survey in 1975, getting involved in the minerals area.

Since becoming director in 1992, McArdle has focused on the needs of a modern-day geological survey, and transforming some of the services the agency can provide.

INFOMAR is the successor programme to the Irish National Seabed Survey (19992005). What are its key technologies?

THE key technologies are both ship-borne and airborne, with most of the effort taking place on board Marine Institute vessels, in particular. readers will know that INFOMAR is a joint venture between the GSI and the Marine Institute, and we are very proud of this relationship. It works very well indeed.

Multibeam is the key technology employed. This is an acoustic technique that directs a sound beam towards the seabed, and then catches the reflections from it. This gives us very detailed bathymetry data, as well as a very good idea of the nature of the seabed. Much of the work, particularly on the nature of the seabed, is also confirmed by taking physical samples.

These are necessary to `ground truth' the data.

For example, if we are going to construct a fisheries habitat map, we need to be sure of what we are talking about. Therefore, we need to get `ground truth' information. Other techniques in-

Inshore Ireland

Information from the INFOMAR project will soon be available online.

INSHORE IRELAND

February 2009

9

INTERVIEW clude gravity and magnetic surveys that provide information on the bedrock geology beneath the seafloor. This would have a lot of applications for exploration and energy, and even for renewables.

WHAT technology is used for air-borne surveying?

WE use LIDAR Ð Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging.

This is a near-shore surveying technique, and it is particularly useful in rugged or complex bays. The use of aircraft means the laser measurements can be made much more efficiently than surveying the same areas with boats and echo sounders. The Tenix LADS Corporation of Australia is the company that carries out these surveys for us. Basically, it functions in the same way as the acoustic beams in the water, though of course in this case it uses a laser beam.

It's effective in very shallow waters to a depth of about 20m, but only where the water isn't turbid. Therefore, the west coast of Ireland is much easier to survey than the east coast. A number of the bays along the western seaboard are being mapped using LIDAR to give us high resolution information. All of this information is being fed into a major database Ð a data centre, even Ð in GSI and the Marine Institute.

Data management is obviously a major part of this research. To date, we've collected over seven terabytes of data, which is very substantial. All together, it is one of the largest national data sets.

HAVE these surveys revealed any interesting results so far?

Recent INFOMAR mapping from airborne LIDAR surveying in Blacksod Bay, which achieved depths of penetration up to 28m.

YES indeed, and we have been delighted by the level of interest shown by Inshore Ireland and the regional media, because there have been very significant discoveries.

Firstly, on the seabed itself, we have been able to map Ice Age deposits in some considerable detail, and iceberg scours have be delineated in very fine detail.

This gives us valuable information about the course of the Ice Age and the extent of the ice sheets at that time.

In addition, we have been able to extend the pattern of onshore geology to the area offshore in a very detailed way. This knowledge supports a whole range of applications Ð from renewable energy to extraction, engineering and maritime safety, such as acting as an aid to getting shipping safely in and out of ports, despite shifting sands.

YES it is Ð almost in real time, and it is freely available. We made a decision a little over a year ago that such information would be available free-of-charge to all users. That decision has been noted internationally, and I think it is already benefitting many different customers and users.

We are also trying to make the information available over the internet. We're not quite there yet, but that's where we are heading, so people will eventually be able to do business with us online.

WHAT are Groundwater Protection Schemes?

THESE are county-based projects undertaken jointly between the GSI and Local Authorities. Their overall aim is to preserve the quality of groundwater, particularly for drinking water purposes.

Basically, there are two components to a Groundwater Protection Scheme Ð an information layer that shows the distribution of aquifers, where there are decent quantities of groundwater, and another layer, which shows how vulnerable each of these might be. This relates to how well the aquifer area is covered with impermeable soil. A strong thickness of boulder clay over an aquifer usually means it's going to be very well protected.

In areas like parts of East Galway and Clare, where you have a limestone aquifer and no covering of clay, the aquifer is extremely vulnerable.

Of course, this all influences the planners in terms of the planning decisions they make, and what activities can take place in particular areas.

WHAT role does the GSI have in protecting drinking water sources?

WITH 15% to 20% of all drinking water in this country coming from groundwater, our focus is very much on this element Ð in other words, springs and boreholes. We work with a whole series of partners to support the groundwater element; in particular, the EPA and the Department of the Environment.

We also undertake source protection work for the county councils. For example, if a county council has a signif icant g roundwater source, we delineate the zone from which surface water is abstracted, and ultimately this helps to make sure the aquifer that feeds it can be protected.

HOW is the GSI involved with the Water Framework IS the data available to the Directive (WFD)? public?

WE have worked closely with On the seabed itself, we have been able to map Ice Age deposits in some considerable detail, and iceberg scours have be delineated in very fine detail.

This gives us valuable information about the course of the Ice Age

the consultants from the River Basin District Projects. We have also serviced the WFD's Working Groups and Committees that discuss and decide on the various technical issues at local and regional level to ensure things work well.

ANOTHER division of the GSI is involved with developing landscape tourism.

What is this?

WE are interested in promoting and supporting sustainable tourism based on landscape resources. A key way of doing this is by promoting areas of outstanding geological heritage, called Geoparks, such as the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark in Co Fermanagh, which extends into Co Cavan. Here visitors can explore a natural underworld of rivers, waterfalls, winding passages and chambers.

Then there is the Copper Coast European Geopark on the south-east coast between Tramore and Dungarvan in Co Waterford, comprising 25 kilometres of spectacular coastline.

GSI works together with the local communities to provide the geological imports to both projects. Of course, this also has a strong North-South dimension, and we've been working for the past 10 or 15 years with GSNI in this whole area, producing products that we hope will support the development of such tourism through the brand `Landscapes from Stone'.

WHATisthestandingofthe GSI internationally?

VERY strong, I am pleased to say because we are the first country to have thoroughly and systematically mapped its seabed area. Of course, our seabed is very substantial in terms of national territory.

Two people of great vision have been involved with this.

Firstly, Peter Heffernan, chief executive of the Marine Institute has been instrumental in developing a very strong marine strategy. He has shown great creativity and determination.

Secondly, our own late Ray Keary spent a lifetime working in marine geology. He developed tremendous insights into what could be achieved if we knew more about the seabed. He was very influential with people in terms of conveying his vision.

These two people set the scene, and then we were subsequently fortunate to get the necessary funding for the Irish National Seabed Survey back in 1999.

We were delighted to have the Marine Institute as one of our partners, in addition to others. That lead on to the INFOMAR project in 2006, which was designed to complete the inshore work.

Then just before Christmas, we were delighted to learn that Cabinet approved the extension of the INFOMAR project for another five years. That's very positive news. www.gsi.ie

10

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

FRESHWATER FOCUS

Public participation implementation of WFD will be crucial Q&A GERY FLYNN FEATURES EDITOR

THE publication last December of a draft management plan, by Ireland's eight River Basin Districts, covering the first six-year cycle 2009 to 2015 marks a major milestone on the road tofullimplementationofthe Water Framework Directive.

Pat Canney, project coordinator of the Western River Basin District which covers counties Clare, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, Sligo and Galway Urban District Council told Inshore Ireland about the

Pat Canney.

the time scale for public consultation?

importance of this plan and the challenges he faces to encourage public engagement.

GERY FLYNN: A Draft Management Plan is out for publicconsultation.Whatisthis and what should the public do with it?

PAT CANNEY: This is a draft of the management plan to cover the six-year period of the Water Framework Directive from 2009 to 2015. Any remaining issues or new problems will be tackled in two further six-year plans: 2015Ð2021 and 2021Ð2027.

This draft shows, step by step, what we have done, what we have learned so far and what we propose to do next.

WHAT approach was used in its planning and what's

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OUR approach was structured Ð to establish the problems, decide the action to take and to make a plan. The final version of this plan must be adopted by all local authorities and will come into effect at the end of 2009.

Before then, we want comments, views and suggestions, which we will consider and address in revising this draft to produce the final version.

AN earlier report, the

Significant Water Management Issues Report , was pub-

lished in 2007. What did it deal with?

SWMI was published by the constituent local authorities within the Western River Basin District in June 2007. This booklet, `Water Matters Ð Have your say!', summarises the main issues affecting the waters in the RBD; how they are causing water problems, what existing controls are in place and what additional actions are proposed to deal with these issues so that the waters can achieve good status under the WFD by the end of 2015.

YOU will have learned the best ways of publicising such reports. Describe the public reaction to SWMI?

THE public were invited to submit their comments by 22 December, 2007. I would describe the response as `so-so'.

With this latest draft, we will also endeavour to engage the public Ð either by radio or public notices in newspapers.

GALWAY people experienced their very own drinking water crisis last year when high levels of cryptosporidium were detected. Do you think this incident has made them more interested in water issues?

I thought that unfortunate episode might have been a wake-up call but, unfortunately, we didn't get a very big response to the public meeting at the time in Galway. There isn't anybody to blame here. Information campaigns will be needed because we are a society under pressure from a host of other

problems, and sadly, some people still don't know or worry about where water comes from.

WHAT kind of publicity do you have in mind and when will it kick off?

AS before, there will be public meetings but at a time we feel the public will engage with the issue. A compounding problem this time round is that it is also an election year. That will add problems as the elections are in early June and most of the elected members will be out canvassing and concentrating on their own prospects. Our campaign may begin in late February, March or even April but it has yet to be decided.

WE are now more than halfway to the 2015 deadline when the Directive is to be implemented EU-wide.

What do you think has been learnedsofarfromthework done?

IN Ireland, until now, we have been managing water

Contact our experts: Ballina office on - 0962977 Derry office on - 048 71279338 MCM Insurance Brokers Ltd., are regulated by the Financial Regulator

The publication last December of a draft management plan, by Ireland's eight River Basin Districts marks a major milestone on the road to full implementation of the Water Framework Directive.

in a fragmented fashion. The WFD has meant having to step back and look at the water cycle. This process has looked at where the water falls into our lakes, rivers, groundwater and out into the sea.

We will be managing water from here on in an integrated fashion. That means you cannot have one entity or one Government department solely responsible. It will be a collaborative effort, so you are looking at different people's priorities to reach a common goal. The other thing, which is very important, is that we can no longer blame others. We can blame people for the price of oil, but the water we get is not imported. It falls from the sky onto the Western River Basin District, and the people in Wexford can't pollute it, and the people in Cavan can't pollute it. It's only the people living in the Western RBD who can pollute their own water.

IF you reverse back to what was the source of the cryptosporidium problem in Galway last year, or what was the pressure that caused it, it was man-made. It was from land use. The big change now is that if you fail to comply with the environmental and quality standards set, the EU is not interested in that failure.

It is only interested in what caused the failure. That brings you back to land use, it brings you back to all the responsibilities that the different sectors have Ð farm-

ing; forestry; the local authorities; individuals with septic tanks, etc. Getting the message out that we are ALL responsible is going to be the challenge.

ARE Ireland's RBDs on schedule for full implementation of the 2015 deadline?

YES. We have complied so far with all the deadlines set by Europe. In fact, Ireland is one of the 15 countries that complied and published a draft plan by the deadline. In terms of implementation, Ireland is top of the class.

LOTS of new technology has been introduced to get to where we are now. How effective has this been?

THE exciting thing from now on is how we manage environmental data, and how we apply GIS or Geographical Information Systems. Implementation of the Directive can't be done without using GIS as a decision-support tool or an environmental data management tool, call it what you like. In doing so, the information and data that you have must be credible and it must be validated.

You have a lot of agencies out there with data, which will be collated and worked on so that you will have eventually a data repository in the EPA which all people should be able to feed off. And when other new research work comes they shouldn't be reinventing the wheel.

They should be able to use that data and build on it, and other agencies and Departments should benefit from it.

INSHORE IRELAND

February 2009

11

FRESHWATER FOCUS

Local conditions should underpin development of natural resources

R

BRENDAN CONNOLLY ecently retired chief executive officer of the Northern Regional Fisheries Board, Harry Lloyd (pictured below), hailed from a farming background and studied agriculture in UCD. After a time spent in the then Department of Lands and Agriculture, he spent 20 years in fisheries management and fisheries policy formation.

Speaking with him, subsequent to his retirement, is not a reminiscence of his days in fisheries and agriculture; instead, it is a forward-looking insight into his thoughts on sustainable development of natural resources.

Lloyd stresses that sustainable practice is all about understanding local conditions.

In an article in the Winter Issue 2008 of Crann, Ireland's tree magazine, he says that ``The National Forestry/Fisheries Guidelines which dictate that Sitka Spruce and Lodgepole Pine are planted on average no closer than 15m from the edge of a watercourse, is a welcome development.''

But, as he points out, most salmon rivers in Co Donegal run in an east-west direction.

A latitude of 55oN ``will throw a tree shadow three times its own height in winter and early spring. Salmon eggs laid in November and December therefore hatch more slowly due to shading that causes a reduction in water temperatures''.

In addition to the influence of the direction of these rivers, the land on either side often slopes upwards. Lloyd calculates that

``A salmon pool of note or a spawning area may need a 60m clearance.''

And he points out that local forestry managers need the empowerment ``to make such decisions on behalf of the people of Ireland'' and that they are not bound by ``corporate expectations''.

CONSERVING TOPSOIL

Lloyd believes that Ireland's topsoil needs to be conserved and managed, and makes the point that ``surface soils mean food.''

He adds that ``Ireland with its copious rainfall and its moderate temperatures has a big advantage in terms of agricultural production. So, we have no need for irrigation that, in time, destroys surface soils with salt brought up in the water from deep wells. Rain water is clean water''.

Putting Irish agriculture in a world context and taking the unprecedented growth of the world's human population into account, he sees surface soils as a fundamental resource.

He suggests that one practice promoting holistic sustainability would be to use the soils that are removed in the process of road building. ``Thousands of acres of infertile land could be trans-

f or me d b y s tr a te g i c a l l y spreading this fertile topsoil on it.''

Again, in this case, he believes that public servants who supervise road building should have the option to take the interest of the citizen into account: ``Using good topsoil to create a fertile zone of new agricultural land suitable for arable crop production that adjoins the national road infrastructure, would create a new strategic national resource that could be used by future generations.''

CONSULTATION

On the role of public servants, he believes that they should consult at all times with local groups. Public servants ``need to deliver the service that citizens request.

Rivers are a primary resource'' and ``local groups should influence the management of this natural resource''.

Lloyds believes this is particularly important in the context of Ireland's small rural economy where water and land resources need local expertise to optimise their sustainable use. ``Nothing should be done to damage the maximum food output from these two vital natural resources,'' he says.

Seminar highlights importance of information flow between Ireland and Canada WENDY SCOTT

A

recent seminar organised by the Heritage Council discussed how the work of its Shannon

Waterway Corridor Studies might be progressed, and ex-

plored ways that all associated agencies could work together for the benefit of the river and its communities. The seminar included a presentation by Heather Thomson, Heritage Planner from Parks Canada, who explained how the Rideau Canal is being managed, especially in relation to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, designation it received in 2007.

The Rideau Canal Waterway is a 202km waterway comprising a series of lakes and rivers that are connected by 19km of canal cuts and is used by water farers from all across North America and beyond. It stretches from Kingston, at the foot of Lake Ontario, to Canada's capital, Ottawa.

The canal was built between 1826 and 1831, before the mechanised age of diggers and bulldozers. It has 45 locks and 24 lock stations that allow vessels with 5ft draughts to navigate the route. From the Upper Rideau Lake, 31 locks lower vessels 83m to the Ottawa River below.

``It is a spectacular location with plenty to offer everyone Ă? from those looking to get away from modern living Ă? to others who want to catch a glimpse of nature at its best,'' she said.

Ms Thomson highlighted similarities between issues experienced in the Rideau Canal area and in Ireland, and how solutions can be learned from each country's experience, in particular when dealing with heritage and development issues.

BACKGROUND

The origin of the waterways corridor idea within the Heritage Council and the subsequent cross fertilisation of ideas between countries began in the 1990s. Ruth Delany, then chair of the Waterways Committee, came across Canada's first studies of the Rideau Waterway corridor and the communication began.

The Heritage Council subsequently carried out five extensive studies along the Shannon, and on the canals

in Offaly, Longford and Westmeath. Parks Canada is now looking at these studies to inform them how they can further study and manage the Rideau Canal Waterway.

Speaking to Inshore Ireland, Beatrice Kelly of the Heritage Council said that such presentations served to ``reassure and inspire people by showing how their experiences can inform ours and how Ireland's ideas and experiences could help elsewhere''.

And she added that as the current economic crisis continues, it was imperative that funds are spent wisely. With over 1,000km of navigable waterways in Ireland, ``We must continue to nurture our ties with Parks Canada.''

An interactive map of the Shannon giving informationoftheareaanddetailing future recommendations, and information on other conferences hosted by the Heritage Council can be found on their web sitewww.heritagecouncil.ie

What is your GERY FLYNN FEATURES EDITOR

N

o sooner had we grasped the concept of the carbon footprint as a measure of environmental impact, when along comes the notion of the water footprint which addresses critical global water issues worldwide. ``The water footprint is an indicator of water use that looks at both direct and indirect water use of a consumer or producer,'' declares Derk Kuiper, executive director of the Water Footprint Network at the University of Twente in The Netherlands where it operates as a nonprofit foundation promoting the move towards sustainable, fair and efficient use of fresh water resources worldwide.

Kuiper adds: ``The water footprint of an individual, community or business is defined as the total volume of freshwater that is used to produce the goods and services consumed by the individual or community or produced by the business.

According to Kuiper, the water footprint can be calculated for any `well-defined group' of consumers: individual, family, village, city, province, state or nation). ``Water use can be measured in terms of water volumes consumed (evaporated) and/or polluted per unit of time. The water footprint is a

? geographically explicit indicator, not only showing volumes of water use and pollution, but also the locations,'' he explains.

Kuiper believes that interest in the water footprint concept and its accompanying methods and tools is `overwhelming'. ``Interest is rooted in the recognition that human impacts on freshwater systems can ultimately be linked to human consumption, and that issues like water shortages and pollution can be better understood and addressed by considering production and supply chains as a whole.''

He highlights some sobering figures whereby production of just 1kg of beef requires 16,000 litres of water, while a single cup of coffee uses up 140 litres of water when all of the demands are counted.

Taking a global perspective he states that despite China's water footprint is 700m3 per year, per capita, only about 7% of this has an impact beyond its borders.

Japan, on the other hand, a highly industrialised country, with a footprint of 1,150m3 per year, per capita, but 65% of its total water footprint impacts beyond its borders.

* You can calculate your own water footprint by logging on to the Water Footprint website at www.waterfootprint.com

Western River Basin District - Draft River Basin Management Plan The statutory date for publication of the Draft River Basin Management Plan along with Environmental report and Habitats Directive Assessment prepared as part of a Strategic Environmental Assessment was Monday the 22nd December 2008.

Copies of the documents relating to the Western River Basin District as listed below are available on, www.westernrbd.ie and on www.wfdireland.ie . Draft River Basin Management Plan, . Associated Environmental Report and Non-technical summary; . Habitats Directive Assessment (HDA) Report

Consultation on these documents will remain open until the 22nd June 2009.

A 6-month window of opportunity for providing comments is available to the public which will allow ample time to read the draft plan ask questions or attend one of the information sessions which will be held over the coming months.

Anyone wishing to comment on the contents of Draft River Basin Management Plan should write to Pat Canney, Project Co-ordinator, Western RBD Office, Galway County Council, Centrepoint, Liosban Industrial Estate, Tuam Rd, Galway, or email pcanney@galwaycoco.ie 29th January 2009

12

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

INSHORE ANGLING

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION

Catch the first salmon!

BRENDAN CONNOLLY

hristmas time is best enjoyed indoors: cozy and protected from the cold winter storms outside. But, despite what the met office might warn, some anglers are thinking about the windswept banks of the river because their New Year's resolution is to catch the first salmon of the season.

The Drowes River traditionally opens on 1 January and is the only salmon fishery during 2009, where you can keep the fish you catch on that day. Just five miles long and set against the scenic backdrop of the Leitrim hills, it forms the border between Donegal and Leitrim for the majority of its course.

Flowing out of Lough Melvin, it enters the sea at Tullaghan. It is not a spate river like other rivers in the area; its waters rise and fall more slowly, controlled by the water level in Lough Melvin.

The Drowes is also known for hosting migrating salmon during every month of the year.

C

The Drowes River is the only salmon fishery where you can keep the fish you catch on 1 January

The advantageous water conditions, together with fine pools and walkways along the river banks, make this a very accessible river for angling.

Over 100 anglers fished the Drowes on New Year's Day. Some fish were caught, but all were kelts that had entered the river last year and were in the process of spawning. One very silver and wellshaped fish, however, was hooked and at first it looked like the first salmon of the season.

When fishery officers checked, its soft belly confirmed it was one of last year's run. After some days, one fresh salmon was caught but unfortunately for its capturer, Eugene Brady from Cavan, it was foul-hooked in the dorsal fin and was returned to the river. So, the Drowes Fishery Perpetual Cup remained on the shelf in the fishery office.

Despite adverse weather conditions, anglers returned again and again to the river bank over the following weeks. Then, on 20 January, news came that the first salmon of the season had been caught in the middle Lake in Killarney by Gerry Looney.

(The Killarney lakes and the River Laune in Co Kerry had opened on 17 January). This was a disappointment to the Drowes anglers as the first salmon of the season had been caught there in 2007 and 2008.

Nevertheless, the Drowes anglers persisted to see who would claim the perpetual cup. One angler, Adrian McGrane from Ballinlough,

near Kells, Co Meath, spent numerous days on the river.

This fly fisherman had caught 18 kelts up to 23 January, but a fresh fish had eluded him.

Casting a weighted fly with a brass cone head, he fished deep in the strong flows of the Drowes.

The fly was his own creation; it was based on patterns that had previously proven successful for him. On that Friday, Adrian had been fishing all day and, at about 4pm, was coming to the end of his day's fishing. He was about halfway between Lough Melvin and the Bridge of the Four Masters on Lareen Estate.

Just as dusk was approaching, he decided to fish one last pool before returning home.

He cast towards the end of the pool and let the fly sink, swinging it across the river before retrieving it. He suddenly felt a take; he had a fish on but was it another kelt? It certainly felt stronger than a kelt so he played this fish with great care, up and down the pool, by now realising this was the first fresh salmon on the Drowes for 2009.

The battle lasted a full half hour before Bill, the fishery manager, expertly landed the fish. And then the celebrations started! The Drowes Perpetual Trophy and a complimentary week's accommodation and fishing on Lareen Estate had been won.

* Booking information about the Drowes Fishery can be obtained from Shane Gallagher, 087-8050806, or www.drowesalmonfishery.com ABOVE: Adrian McGrane with his 10.5lb first Drowes salmon of 2009.

FAR LEFT: The Drowes River.

LEFT: The Drowes Salmon Fishery, Lareen Estate.

RIGHT: Drowes and Lough Melvin flies.

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

13

INSHORE ANGLING

...line & sinker 35,000 copies of Inshore Ireland are distributed to the coastal & inland waterways regions of the island of Ireland

We have the country hooked

www.inshore-ireland.com

14

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

GSI SURVEY VESSEL

Unique design to aid Ireland's seabed mapping capabilities Ă&#x201A; n Laoghaire ahead RV Keary heads for Du

of threatening winter skies.

R

GILLIAN MILLS EDITOR

High speed props, pod, hydrofoil, stabilising rams and the asymmetrical hull combine to create a highly technical craft.

The pod containing multi-beam and other sensors.

unning before dark skies that were building in the Irish Sea, a silver shimmer appeared on the horizon off Bray Head. It was the RV Keary Ă? a purpose built, aluminium catamaran whose journey had begun 7,000 miles away in a boatyard in Cape Town almost two years ago.

The vessel is named after the late Ray Keary of the Geological Survey of Ireland, who for years had quietly championed the value of Ireland's marine resource. Finally, his message was heard when the GSI received approval from government in 1999 to commence mapping Ireland's seabed territory, an area that is nine times the size of its landmass.

The 15m vessel will survey inshore waters as part of the INFOMAR project. Until this time, the GSI's project partners at the Marine Institute employed their own research vessels, Celtic Explorer and Celtic Voyager, to survey Ireland's near shore territorial waters. The deep waters were originally surveyed under contract to the GSI by a private company. RV Keary will be more effective in very shallow waters due to increased swath width made possible by her shallow 1.7m draft. The tendering process culminated in a contract being awarded through IMAR Survey Ltd to Veecraft Marine in Cape Town, who laid the keel in November 2007. ``A lot of thought went into the design,'' explains Sean

Cullen of INFOMAR. ``The main feature is the central pod that houses the multibeam echo sounder; single beam echo sounder; CHIRP sub-bottom profiler; ultra short baseline underwater positioning system (USBL) and ancillary surveying equipment. ``Housing all the equipment in one location allows for quicker deployment, retraction for maintenance and protection of the equipment.

This is a novel approach, and despite some early teething problems, we are confident that the concept will prove beneficial,'' he says.

A multi-hull was chosen to provide greater stability when surveying. The vessel size has been shown to provide a safe, ergonomical accommodation to crews who will spend some considerable time onboard. ``When running up and down the line, we will be cruising at between 5 knots and 10 knots, therefore the catamaran will offer a more manoeuvrable platform.

When we're packed up and heading for the shore, however, at full throttle Keary can pick up to 24 knots within a few seconds. Two 500HP Cummins, with trolling gear boxes, give Keary this full variation of the power required for a variety of missions. In addition, there is a hydrofoil or fixed wing between the hulls which puts the vessel onto a plane at 16 knots, allowing for greater fuel efficiency.

The Keary will also carry out other survey tasks afforded by an array of other equipment that include: dedicated side scan sonar; `Spar-

Offshore Surveys Marine Geophysical, Geotechnical and Hydrographic Surveys Advanced high tech solutions for all offshore survey and positioning requirements Coast and Harbour Surveys, EEZ Surveys, Site Surveys, Cable & Pipeline Route Surveys, Nautical Charting Surveys

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Oilfield Inspection Surveys including ROV work 2D High Resolution Seismic survey.

We are keen to establish a customer friendly approach, tailoring development to customer needs combining cost effectiveness with quality.

Imar Survey Limited. Ionad Tionsclaioch, Casla, Connamara, Co. Galway, Ireland Phone: +353 91 572047 Email: info@imarsurvey.com Website: http://www.imarsurvey.com

CMC cut frames being assembled.

Aluminium hull cuts down on maintenance.

There is a hydrofoil or fixed wing between the hulls which puts the vessel onto a plane at 16 knots, allowing for greater fuel efficiency

INSHORE IRELAND

February 2009

15

GSI SURVEY VESSEL

Versatility in construction is Veecraft's strength

B

ased in Cape Town, South Africa, Veecraft Marine specialises in the construction of custom built commercial and military craft in steel and aluminium from 8m to 35m.

The six-year-old company is owned and managed by Andre van Niekerk and Edmund Erasmus, who have more than 25 years experience in boat building and marine engineering.

ker' towed seismic system; Aframe and freefall winch for sampling and a mini ROV (remotely operated vehicle with video). The aft working deck can also be used for larger ROVs and sampling equipment, aided by a small hydraulic knuckle crane that

Veecraft Marine works closely with its customers to design and build craft that uniquely meet their needs.

All vessels are constructed to meet stringent quality standards in accordance with ISO 9001. ``We are willing to be innovative, with the result that each craft is essentially custom-built to the owner's specification, and in a manner that affords competitive pri-

can also launch the 4.5m RIB. The bridge is well appointed with radar, automatic identification system (AIS), forward looking sonar, auto pilot; Navtex /Weatherfax, CCTV and electronic engine controls. Being a survey vessel, the depth, positioning

cing,'' said co-owner, Andre van Niekerk. ``With the current strength of the euro against the Rand, (12:1), we can offer a very competitive product to European customers,'' he adds. Veecraft Marine works closely with local and overseas naval architects, thus providing a range of proven hull designs in their portfolio.

The deck systems can be modified within reason to

data and weather information are of exceptional quality, and are interfaced through NMEA from the survey acquisition to the bridge systems.

The survey data is stored onboard in a 14 Terrabyte RAID computer system after

suit local conditions. Van Niekerk said: ``We specialise in harbour vessels including pilot boats, tugs, work boats, launches and patrol craft.

Our other speciality is high-speed aluminium monohulls and hydrofoil supported catamarans for oilrig support vessels, military applications, ferries and rescue applications.'' The company's website is updated weekly, which enables customers worldwide processing through dedicated acquisition systems. When fully operational, the team expects to be able to update their website every two weeks once the data has been processed and quality controlled. Cullen said: ``All of our data is freely available to anybody who wants it. This has been a governing principle of our work almost since the beginning of the entire seabed mapping programme. ``The main users would be fishermen, exploration and aggregate companies, renewable energy stakeholders (i.e. wind and wave energy) and many others. All the data is also given over to the UKHO for updating their Admiralty navigation charts,'' Cullen explains. The INFOMAR team are looking forward to commencing survey in the Spring, starting in Dublin Bay and then progressing around the entire Irish coastline.

"We're very pleased with the workmanship that Veecraft Marine has put into the vessel and will showcase Keary to them in real-time when they visit Ireland in late June. In the meantime we look forward to the commissioning of the Keary soon and to commence survey work in Dublin Bay and beyond," he said. www.infomar.ie

to keep informed of the latest technologies the company is employing. Currently on the books are two 27m steel pilot boats, with aluminium wheel house for the South African Port of Durban, and five 10m aluminium catamarans.

Last year's production include: 15m GSI RV Keary, two 12m catamarans; two 18m high speed crew transfer vessels, and 8m-9m catamarans for offshore survey compa-

nies. ``We were delighted to have been awarded the contract to build the RV Keary for the GSI. It was a pleasure to work with the team,'' said Andre van Niekerk. ``We hope to be in Ireland in June and look forward to catching up with the RV Keary and seeing her perform,'' van Niekerk told Inshore Ireland.

For further information visit www.veecraft.com.

Hydrographic and geophysical turnkey solutions under one roof BASED in Connemara, IMAR Survey Limited is a hydrographic and marine geophysical firm, focused on providing turnkey survey and positioning solutions for the offshore industry.

Established in 2002, a recent project for the company has been the management of the construction of RV Keary for the GSI, in collaboration with Maritime Management.

IMAR Survey Ltd recently broadened its capabilities in this area though their merger with Gardline Marine Sciences Ltd in May last year, and is now looking forward to taking on similar challenges in the future.

IMAR has a unique combination of experienced survey personnel combined with expertise in ship management.

The team includes hydrographic surveyors, geologists, geophysicists, electronic en-

gineers, CAD experts, GIS experts, project managers and IT Specialists, with many decades of experience in offshore survey applications.

Its participation in the Irish National Seabed Survey (INSS) and the follow-on inshore mapping programme, INFOMAR, is well-known and documented.

This project, funded by the Irish government, is the largest survey of its type worldwide, and has to date involved mapping some 500,000m2.

IMAR Survey Ltd has built up a significant portfolio of clients in a range of Irish offshore industries by providing hydrographic, oceanographic, geophysical and geological services.

For further information contact Mick Geoghegan on +353 91 572047 or email: info@imarsurvey.com.

16

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

AQUACULTURE NEWS

Fish farming provides real jobs and real value for coastal communities

D

VERA HEFFERNAN BIM id

you

that

know

in

1980

second only to beef at £467m

mately 2,700km of coastline,

and ahead of fish catches at

Ireland is in a perfect geogra-

£370m, the sheep sector at

phical position to develop its

£151m and the pig industry

aquaculture industry. Yet in

In value terms, the first-

shellfish farming present at

munity was in terminal de-

at £57m.

terms of farmed salmon, Ire-

sale value of the sector on

coastal and national level.

cline until the advent of aquaculture activities.

Aquaculture's economic contribution to Scotland www.aquaculture.org.uk (2007).

only 9% of fish

Looking further afield, fish

land is only producing in an

average runs at 160m per

Such reasoning is likely to

consumed came

farming plays an important

entire year what Norway pro-

annum.

become even more powerful

from

role

duces every three days.

farmed

in

the

economies

of

There is a further uplift of

Developing have

in the current climate.

also

technologies

provided

more

sources, but that today this

many other countries. It is

Currently, the Irish aqua-

at least another 40m arising

Irish aquaculture has cre-

skilled and technical posts,

stands as 43%? According to

Norway's second most impor-

culture sector directly em-

from simple value-added ac-

ated a niche place in the

meaning that highly qualified

the Food and Agricultural

tant sector after oil produc-

ploys

full-time

tivities to this raw material.

market, and has earned an

people who would previously

Organisation (FAO) of the

tion,

equivalent (FTE) people per

The vast bulk of this output

international reputation in

have had to leave to find

United Nations, growing de-

largest export product.

annum.

(approximately 80%) is ex-

today's seafood world for its

work are now able to stay in

ported. Because it is a busi-

consistently high quality and

the region.

pristine conditions of produc-

and

is

Chile's

third

1,250

mand for fish and seafood

Interestingly, Chile's well

Total direct and induced

worldwide is due to popula-

known wine industry, whose

employment from aquacul-

ness

tion growth and that global

products are much in evi-

2,825

natural resource, there are

aquaculture production will

ture

dence here in Ireland, is only

FTEs, virtually all of whom

very small associated import

Irish aquaculture products

have to double by 2030 to keep

half as valuable as its aqua-

costs, and so its value can be

demand higher price segmen-

quality seafood, contributing

pace with this demand.

are located in remote coastal

culture sector.

communities. The

is

estimated

at

activity

based

on

a

Ireland's aquaculture industry is ideally placed to be

tion.

a

significant

producer

of

average

almost entirely set on the

tation than similar products

to the annual growth targets

rural family size is currently

positive side of the national

from other origins, due to

set at EU level in meeting the

accounts for a large percen-

trade balance.

consumer

of,

ever increasing demand for

production where aquacul-

4.6

tage

and

each

In terms of aquaculture

and demand for, the Irish

seafood on European and in-

ture is the fastest growing

reliably

coastal

the

development, a national re-

origin.

deed global markets.

sector. Take our neighbour,

aquaculture derived FTE con-

globe, providing an answer

Scotland,

example,

tributes in whole, or part, to

to the common problem of

where aquaculture is the sin-

the incomes of at least 4.6

finding sustainable economic

gle most important economic

persons in coastal areas.

development options in re-

development

High-

Thus, some 12,995 coastal

mote regions with the conse-

lands and Islands, creating thousands

This is evident from the

In fact, fish farming often

world league table of food

as

of

an

in

the

jobs

in

this

remote region where no other opportunities exist.

CONTRIBUTOR

of

jobs

in rural

areas

around

that

be

recognition

Against this backdrop, it is

nificant proportion of the in-

imperative that the clear and

late 2008, `Awareness and at-

d u s t r y

h a s

growing opportunity within

titudes to fish farming', found

independently accredited or-

the market is captured. This

dwellers depend wholly or in

support for the suggestion

ganic

national

quent stabilisation of fragile

part

that aquaculture should be

these

communities.

aquaculture. That is a hugely

GROWTH POTENTIAL

significant influence in terms

The key reason behind this

of the economics of our coast-

support is the employment

al communities.

opportunities that fish and

All this begs the question: does Ireland have the potenaquaculture

and significance may be prop-

thereby help sustain and ex-

erly understood when com-

pand coastal employment?

industry

and

The answer is a resounding

Scotland's

yes. We are talking about real

rural economies: The ex-farm

jobs and real value and the

value of fish farming was in

creation of real exports.

excess of £400m in 2006 Ð

can

vey commissioned by BIM in

to Scotland in terms of size

to

argued

it

presentative syndicated sur-

tial to further develop its

contributors

so

In addition to this, a sig-

Fish farming's contribution

pared with other important

persons,

Being an island of approxi-

for

their

income

on

developed.

A national representative syndicated survey commissioned by BIM in late 2008, `Awareness and attitudes to fish farming', found support for

or

n o w

eco-certification,

be

spearheaded and developed

supports that will be given to

by BIM and are the first of

the industry by BIM and the

their kind internationally.

government under the 2007-

Evidence of national broad

2013 NDP. BIM's key roles

acceptance of the fish farm-

includes

ing industry, along with mar-

technical advice, delivery of

ket demand for aquaculture

quality and environment pro-

products, suggests that the

grammes as well as market-

potential for this industry

the

provision

of

ing and training supports to

could be of real economic

promote the development of

significance to rural areas.

the aquaculture industry in a sustainable manner.

For more information on

in areas such as Clare Island

should be developed

will

achieved through the ongoing

Currently, this is the case

the suggestion that aquaculture

objective

were

programmes

in Co Mayo, where the com-

BIM go to www.bim.ie.

Salmon smolts affected by salmon farming Ð report GERY FLYNN FEATURES EDITOR RE CE NT

The 2009 IASC Seafood Show is an absolute must for anyone involved in the seafood industry.

Catch up on what’s happening in the trade. Get down to some serious business networking. And, dare we say, the odd bit of socialising with processors and retailers from around the country.

So if you are interested in the seafood business, don’t let it pass you by.

Make it your business to attend the 2009 IASC Seafood Show.

a me ndmen ts

to

of its duty under the Habitats

tive

Directive,

farming bays. Therefore there

which

requires

salmon

unless very good sea lice con-

Maguire

in

the

that

METHODOLOGY

is

avoid,

possibility

where there is none.''

priate

to

strong

into

Member States to `take approsteps

a

discharge

hinted

also

that

on

marine

there were questions about

wild

salmon

the methodology of the SUM-

aquaculture licencing laws

special areas of conservation,

trol

here, and a suggestion that

the

salmon

some salmon farms are oper-

habitats

ating without a proper assess-

species, as well as disturbance

mortality

ment of their environmental

of

these

impact on wild salmon, could

areas have been designated, in

tion status of salmon in these

raised about the control of

land Ireland before the Eur-

so

rivers will be affected'.

variables and the repeatabil-

opean Court of Justice, a new

could be significant in relation

Donal Maguire, aquacul-

ity of results with regard to

report claims.

to the objectives of this Direc-

ture development manager

this experimental work, call-

tive'.

with BIM, accused the FIE of

ing its validity into question.

A submission by the NGO

deterioration

the

far

and

species

as

of

the

for

such

natural

habitats

which

of

the

disturbance

is

smolts

in

place

farms, will

suffer

increased

migration

bays

and

the

BAWS research.

He said: ``Serious scientific

through conserva-

concerns

have

also

been

Also, as other publications

exaggeration, and being anti-

Friends of the Irish Environ-

The submission is based on

ment says that research in

the findings of the `Sustain-

Ireland, Scotland, and Nor-

able Management of interac-

way demonstrates that wild

tions Between Aquaculture

are

and

that the results of other colla-

salmon

and Wild Salmonid fish' pro-

used selectively to promote

borating partners in this field

ject [SUMBAWS].

an anti-salmon farming agen-

do not corroborate closely

SEA LICE IMPACT

da. This is unfortunate, as it

with the `SUMBAWS' find-

simply

ings.''

smolts

suffer

in-

creased mortality after migrating through bays with salmon cages. It also accuses the Irish government of turn-

FIE quotes the SUMBAWS :

are placed in the scientific

salmon farming. He said: ``Put plainly, the results being

over-hyped

distracts

attention

literature it will become clear

Maguire said that Friends

away from the serious need

salmon

to safeguard our stocks of

of

of EU law by allowing certain

smolts are being impacted by

wild salmonids. It is unfortu-

were `entitled to make com-

salmon farms to operate with-

sea lice on their seaward mi-

nately easier to look for sca-

plaints to the European Un-

out assessing their likely im-

gration in salmon aquaculture

pegoats than to face up to the

ion', but he was confident

pact on wild salmon.

bays is a new finding and a

multifactorial

problems

that `their assertions would

cause for concern. A number of

being faced by migratory sal-

not be borne out if and when

salmon rivers in the west de-

monid stocks all across Eur-

they are examined by de-

government

signated as SACs for salmon

ope, in locations where there

tached and balanced scienti-

would appear to be in breach

under the EU Habitats Direc-

is salmon farming and areas

fic reviewers'.

ing a blind eye to the flouting

The

FIE

submission

claims: `The

Irish

`The

finding

that

the

Irish

Environment

INSHORE IRELAND

T

he welfare of farmed animals is viewed as a key aspect of farming as it is paramount in order to achieve the best produce and to command the best price.

Fish farming is no different, and it is a key area for fish farmers who in many cases have a three-year stock cycle requiring constant observation and maintenance.

With this in mind BIM has responded to industry requirements for training in this area and has completed the first calendar year of a new FETAC accr edited Farmed Fish Welfare Course for those involved in the aquaculture sector.

To fully understand the importance of farmed fish welfare, BIM staff, in partner-

ship with Dr Hamish Rodger of Vet-Aqua International, delivered a comprehensive course that included modules on the meaning of fish welfare and the basic care and responsibilities towards farmed animals.

MODULES

It explored the meaning of stress in fish, health issues, and how to plan and change day-to-day operations based on environmental conditions as well as how to measure these conditions accurately.

Feeding of fish, humane slaughter and harvesting were also covered in detail.

The course aimed to make a difference to welfare issues and so participants completed welfare plans for their operations. The course also reviewed how different species of fish have different welfare needs. Participants covered all species from lob-

sters to sea horses through to salmon, cod and trout.

A lot of work went into planning a practical, handson course that looked at the important area of fish welfare. This course, and the enthusiastic uptake of it, places the Irish industry at the leading edge of farmed fish welfare.

One study of particular interest concerned fish biology and how they differ from mammals, as Dr Rodger explains:

PAIN AND FEAR SENSITIVITY

``Fish lack a neocortex, the part of the brain involved in sensory perception which is common in all mammals. In early zoological work it was thought that without this fish could not feel pain as humans, cows, sheep and other vertebrates do.

Adding to this was the fact

17

AQUACULTURE NEWS

Fish welfare training programme attracts high industry turnout SUSAN STEELE BIM

February 2009

Salmon cage.

that fish can't make any noise to show pain. Research has proven however that not only do fish feel pain but they can experience fear in certain circumstances. Another study shows that playing music such as Mozart to farmed fish can calm them, in a similar way to other animals.''

Fish welfare is important to the industry, to consumers and to legislators, and is embraced by the fish farmers

all over Ireland. Over 100 participants from all sectors of the aquaculture industry, the Central Fisheries Board, BIM and the aquariums have successfully undertaken a FETAC accredited course in farmed fish welfare to date.

The course facilitators were very impressed with the high welfare standards already in place throughout the industry and the care and knowledge of the stock men for their fish.

Feedback was particularly positive and the course is set to run again throughout 2009.

Fish welfare is an area where papers are being published daily.

It is a developing area, and this course ensures that the industry can stay ahead of the game and develop their businesses accordingly. * For further information, please contact Susan Steele, BIM, 027 71232.

Seaweed and bio-ethanol: new opportunities or trouble?

STEFAN KRAAN

* The Irish Seaweed Centre has succeeded in cultivating kelp biomass up to ~22 kg dw m2 a-1. Thisis 2-4 timesgreater than sugarcane which ranges between 6-10 kg dw m2 a-1. * Seaweed cultivation does not require added fertilizers so there is no water pollution or food issues involved. * The absence of lignin and a low cellulose content means that compared to land plants seaweeds are easily converted by biological processes. * Seaweeds are already farmed on a large scale in Asia.

W

IRISH SEAWEED CENTRE hen oil peaked last July at US$140/barrel, alternative products such as biofuels came sharply into focus; however despite prices tumbling to a current price of US$40/barrel, the debate about biofuels has not disappeared.

Dependency on fossil fuels for energy production is problematic, both because of CO2 emissions and the depletion of a finite resource. Obviously, energy production will be sustainable only if it is based directly or indirectly on resources such as solar energy. Biomass is stored solar energy. And if the amount of biomass grown for energy use equaled consumption, there would be no net build-up of CO2 in the atmosphere.

Organic matter like seaweeds can be degraded biologically to produce ethanol, CH4 and CO2. Sugar cane is currently the world's largest source of microbial-produced ethanol. In 1994, 12.5 billion litres of bioethanol was consumed for fuel purposes, accounting for 48.5 % of Brazil's automobile fuel demand. Global bioethanol production in 2008 topped 50,000 million litres.

WHY BIOFUELS?

* Climate change and increas-

ing levels of atmospheric CO2. * The EU has committed to cutting 1990 levels of CO2 emissions by 20% by 2020. * The US has pledged to make

A NEW INDUSTRY?

Seaweed farming is common practice in Asia as keen be seen by DigitataFina: The brown seaweed Laminaria digitata is currently

these specially designed boats in Japan to harvest seaweeds

the focus for cultivation for the production of bioethanol.

cultivated on nets.

plant-derived ethanol costcompetitive by 2012. * Britain has implemented the Renewable Transport Fuels Obligation Ð meaning that 5% of all transport fuels have to be derivedfrom a renewable source by 2010 and 10% by 2015 (currentlyitstandsatjustover 2%). * The EU has committed to replacing 10% of transport fuels with sustainable biofuel sources by 2020.

Historically, ethanol has been the fuel of choice, with the first internal combustion engines designed to run on it.

Ethanol has also been touted as an extremely beneficial fuel, due to its higher octane rating Ð 113 compared to that of petrol which ranges between 83 and 95.

Another advantage of bioethanol is the indepen-

water and chemical fertilizers which impact on water quality and conservation targets. * Monocultivation of any type will affect biodiversity in the area. * Strong competition for land use by differentorganisations.

Seaweed cultivation, on the other hand, does not involve any of these negative issues.

Instead, seaweeds could act as a bio-remediation crops that would lower the impact of land-derived/run off nitrates and phosphates in inshore waters, while, at the same time producing high-biodiversity areas and extra nursery ar eas for aquatic animals, and assist the restoration of endangered fish stocks.

dence that it offers countries like Ireland which have no access to crude oil reserves and are entirely dependent on oil imports. If these same countries can produce crops for energy uses they will gain some economic independence.

THE DOWNSIDES

* About 25% of all maize and

grain production in the US is used for biofuel production, and is now blamed for a rise in foodprices.Alsotheuseoffood crops to produce transport fuels while large areas of the world suffer food shortages is seen as very negative. * Many crops (soy, peanut and palm oil) are grown in tropical regions for biofuel production while rainforest is destroyed to make way for them. * Many crops need excessive

BIOETHANOL

Brown seaweeds are very

Photos: Irish Seaweed Centre

high in carbohydrates Ð often with up to 60% of the dry weight accounting for these sugars. Nevertheless, their often complex composition means that complete degradation necessitates the presence of broad substate microorganisms.

A recent breakthrough at the Biochemistry Department of NUI Galway and the University of Bergen, Norway however has resulted in a 92% conversion efficiency of all carbohydrates into ethanol.

ADVANTAGES

* Seaweeds are fast-growing

andexceedterrestrialbiomass in growth rates. * Kelp `forests' can produce up to 2 kg C m2 a-1 Ð more than twice the figure for temperate tree plantations or grasslands.

Over the last five years, the ISC has developed on-growing methodologies (hatchery and aquaculture) for several seaweed species through programmes funded by Enterprise Ireland and the Marine Institute.

Cultivated seaweed can fulfil a role in the production of ethanol as a biofuel in order to help Ireland achieve set targets, lower CO2 emissions and making us less dependent on oil. Nevertheless, seaweed as wet biomass can play only a minor role in the large scheme of things by replacing roughly 5% of current oil consumption. Only a combination of solar, wind, wave and biomass can truly tackle our energy problems in Ireland.

Information on hatchery, on-growing and harvesting of commercially important species can be obtained from the Irish Seaweed Centre.

Stefan.kraan@nuigalway.ie

18

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

AQUACULTURE NEWS

IFA aqua conference highlights jobs and exports potential of the industry

I

FA Aquaculture is hosting an emergency conference in the Kenmare Bay Hotel on 19 March to highlight the massive contribution aquaculture can make during the difficult economic times the country is facing.

Entitled `A new Dell along the coast Ð jobs and exports

Irish Aquaculture', the event will be aimed at highlighting the opportunities in aquaculture and discussing ways in which the main obstacles to achieving the industry's potential can be overcome. A range of speakers and an open forum discussion will also form part of the agenda.

from

Announcing the event, Richie Flynn, IFA Aquaculture executive secretary, told Inshore Ireland that Irish aquaculture had been born during the last recession as a ``logical and successful response to the need to grow jobs and exports in our coastal areas''. ``Today's crisis may be greater than the one we faced

in the 1980s. However, the aquaculture industry is equally in a key strategic position with sound fundamental economics behind it to make a huge contribution to the national effort to work our way out of the current problems. Jobs and exports must now take priority over bureaucracy and prevarica-

tion. It's time to act and this event will focus everyone's minds on how that should be achieved.''

Speakers will include IFA president Pa draig Walshe and experts on economic issues affecting aquaculture, including markets, environmental and regulatory. Minister of State with

responsibility for fisheries, Tony Killeen TD has been invited to participate in the event.

The Irish Shellfish Association AGM will take place directly after the event, while the National Biotoxin Workshop will take place in the same venue on the following day, Friday 20 March.

IFA president puts on pressure over NDP funds

T

he IFA president, PaÂdraig Walshe, has expressed his `deep concern' for the aquaculture industry over ongoing delays in releasing funding for the sector under the 2007-2013 NDP. PaÂdraig Walshe has demanded answers from Minister Killeen to explain the Government's silence on the matter since the October 2008 budget, when 5m was allocated to the sector for 2009. ``The Association views the aquaculture sector as playing a key role in rural and coastal development and employment by providing high quality sustainable seafood in the form of exports and added value products. This is an unsubsidised industry that

relies on the quality and consistency of its harvest to compete effectively in the marketplace. ``The EU has recognised the need for the sector to continually improve its production methods and efficiencies and has provided for state aid to be granted for such structural projects within the rules of the European Fisheries Fund.''

He added the IFA `notes with concern' that it has been more than three years since a call for applications under ``any capital investment measure'' has been made for the Irish aquaculture sector. ``We are also concerned at the prolonged wait imposed on the sector in relation to the recommendations on li-

censing, communications and capital aid as outlined in the Cawley report. The IFA, however, welcomes the fact that the Government set aside 5m in the Budget for 2009 for grants to aquaculture.''

The IFA leader pointed out that given the major concerns and frustrations within the finfish and shellfish sector relating to licensing and investment, ``a major signal of Government support would be the opening of a call for applications under a capital grant scheme for fish farming. We are aware that all the bureaucratic preparation (Strategic Environmental Assessment etc) has been completed and all that remains now is a political decision to roll out the schemes to the

industry.'' Mr Walsh told Inthat along with the ISA chairman, Flor Harrington and ISGA chairman, Damien O'Ceallacha in, he hoped to meet Minister Killeen ``as soon as possible'' to discuss issues of importance to the aquaculture sector.

Inshore Ireland asked DAFF to confirm if and when the 5m allocation, under the Aquaculture Industry Development Measure, would be released.

The reply reads: shore Ireland

`The an

process

Aquaculture

of

developing

Development

Measure for the period up to 2013

has

been

lengthy

and

complex. To comply with EU Environmental an

extensive

onmental

Regulations

Strategic

Assessment

Envirof

the

proposed schemes

measures

for

fisheries

and and

aquaculture has been carried out'.

``Concerns have been raised in the context of the SEA: * That the SEA is insufficient in its scope and does not address the impacts of the OP on the Natura sites * That the SEA report on the OP does not review the potential impact of salmon aquacultureonwildsalmonstocksand the interactions between farmed and wild salmon were ignored. ``The matters arising in this situation are being examined. ``BIM and UÂdaraÂs na Gaeltachta are proposing to seek applications under the EU

Fisheries programmes 2000 to 2006 for aquaculture development as all funds under this programme have not been taken up. The available EU funding is mainly in the BMW region and will be required to be completed by mid-May 2009.''

Âdraig Walshe, IFA president.

Pa

Seafood insufficiency linked to poor mental health French catering show IRISH people are 50 times more likely to develop depression than populations like Japan where seafood consumption is very high, according to Professor Michael Crawford, director of the Institute of Brain Chemistry and Human Nutrition, University of North London.

A guest of BIM at a conference organised by the Irish

Nutrition and Dietetic Institute, Prof Crawford added that dependence on a meat and wheat-based diet was resulting in a significant rise in brain ill-health in the western world. Currently, just over 50% of the Irish population eats fish at least once a week. ``Eat more fish and substantially lessen your risk of

Professor Michael Crawford spoke at a conference organised by the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute.

developing mental health problems,'' he advises.

Prof Crawford describes the rise in brain disorders and mental health problems associated with Omega 3 deficiency as ``the most pressing health issue of the 21st century''. ``Forget obesity Ð mental health is the real disaster already beginning to happen.

We are seeing more and more scientific evidence linking brain disorders and diet. For example, researchers now know women suffering from post-natal depression produce breast milk that is very low in DHA Ð the boss of the Omega 3 family. Similarly, preliminary research into Alzheimer's shows that sufferers are also losing this critical DHA from their brain.''

According to Prof Crawford, the message is simple: ``Our brain is made of marine fats. If we do not feed the food it requires to remain healthy, such as fish and specifically Omega 3 fat, then

we are looking at serious brain problems like depression, bi-polar disorder and childhood behavioural problems like ADHD and dyslexia, dyspraxia.''

Crawford, however, cautions against relying on Omega 3 supplements or Omega 3 enhanced food products. ``Supplements are acceptable as an emergency measure; however, the best source of Omega 3 fatty acids is to be found in seafood,'' he said.

BACKGROUND

Crawford predicted an escalation in mental health disorders being linked to diet in the early 1970s. Over 30 years later and brain disorders now outrank all other health problems in the EU. Mental health has overtaken heart disease as the leading medical health problem in Europe at a cost of 25% of Europe's 386bn healthcare bill.

Further information from BIM's consumer section on www.bim.ie.

BIM participated at one of the most popular catering trade shows, Sirha, in Lyon last month. The bi-annual show provided a platform to showcase Irish seafood to restaurant owners and catering companies. Catering professionals were treated to oyster and mussel tastings and witnessed the high quality of Irish quality oysters and Irish quality mussels.

More than 500 professional visitors tasted samples of Irish seafood, many of whom were either restaurant owners, central catering buyers or fish shop owners. Feedback from the tastings was very positive, with catering professionals describing Irish

oysters as being `meaty with a crisp delicate lingering taste, a light iodine flavour, a slight nut fragrance and well balanced salinity.' They associated the products and Ireland with authenticity and the natural environment, and this was reflected in the BIM branding used at the stand.

Tastings of cooked and frozen Irish produced convenience products were also showcased. These value added products were very popular due to the mussels being cooked in the shell in their own juice. * For more information on BIM's market and promotional activity, contact

www.bim.ie

INSHORE IRELAND

Prestigious award for top salmon farm M

arine Harvest Ireland has been honoured for its Clare Island Organic Salmon at the 15th Irish Food Writers' Guild food awards.

Clare Island is one of the largest salmon farms in Ireland, harvesting up to 80 tonnes of organic salmon every week. The fish food is made from organic and GMOfree ingredients.

Speaking to Inshore Ireland, Marine Harvest's managing director, Jan Feenstra, said it was a great honour to receive the award: ``There are a lot of people involved in producing our fish Ð the product that is on display here came into the world as an egg in November 2005; hatched in early 2006 and went to sea a year later when its most challenging time started (it takes some 3.5 years to grow these fish, and I think that represents a genuine slow food by any standard Ð what other farmed protein is nurtured in its natural environment for such a long time?)

``Our Clare Island farm is at a very exposed oceanic location, a very challenging place to work, where without our staff Ð especially those based on the island itself Ð this farm could not operate.

We are all grateful to those who face life at sea day after day to ultimately bring this product to your table. ``Clare Island organic salmon is a fantastic natural quality salmon that tastes delicious just as nature intended it to taste Рthank you for recognising this. Your work and recognition should help more people's awareness of our salmon and hence also learn a bit more about its background. Qualities of course vary in any food sector, and the old fashioned cliche that farmed salmon is something one should avoid has been re-written or at least qualified by your award. That represents an important milestone for us, thank you. ``Keeping track of exactly where our food comes from can be difficult and for us quality food producers, we

T

retailers that consistently deliver the highest standards of seafood and service across the three categories of hospitality, seafood specialist and supermarket seafood counter.

Membership currently comprises 27 supermarkets,

Pictured with the distinctive BIM Seafood Circle 2009 membership plaque in the Seafood Specialist category husband and wife team Amy Caviston and Shane Willis of A. Caviston's in Greystones, Co Wicklow. Caviston's also gained membership of the Seafood Circle Hospitality category.

19

SEAFOOD DESK

Paul Younger, John Fagan and Kitt Foster at the 2008 show

Networking show

T

John O'Donoghue, Derryvilla Blueberry Farm; Derry Clarke, chef/ patron L'Ecrivain; Patrick Berridge, Carrigbyrne Farmhouse Cheese Company and Eve-Anne McCarron, Clare Island Salmon.

would welcome stricter labelling laws. Such would safeguard genuine high quality foods that incur significantly higher costs to produce. We do all we can to produce this product consistently and as promised, labelling should ensure that the truth is readily available and trustworthy for the consumer to make his

Membership of BIM'S Seafood Circle continues to grow wenty-three additional hospitality and retail businesses have joined BIM's Seafood Circle, bringing the current number of members to 155.

The initiative recognises restaurants, pubs and seafood

February 2009

37 seafood specialists and 91 hospitality outlets throughout 20 counties..

According to Donal Buckley, BIM's market and business development manager, the rise in membership in the Seafood Circle is a ``significant achievement and helps highlight the increasing focus on providing excellence in quality seafood and service, which in turn benefits consumers.''

BIM works with food writer Georgina Campbell and her team who conduct independent, consumer-focused assessments in order to select the best seafood establishments nationwide. ``Now, more than ever, consumers are looking for quality in their purchase as well as value for money Ð whether they are eating out or doing their grocery shopping. Members of the Seafood Circle consistently deliver the highest standards in seafood quality and service and we want consumers to look for the Seafood Circle when shopping or eating out and in doing so continue to support these important local businesses,'' Buckley added.

Details of the programme along with recipes; fish preparation and buying tips; frequently asked questions and a national directory of all the members are available on www.seafoodcircle.com

or her choice. ``Awards such as these represent another form of labelling, a non technical endorsement Ð just like when a reputable restaurant or chef puts `Clare Island Salmon' on the menu. These are the instances that fuel our passion for commitment to quality.''

he annual show for independent seafood processors and retailers organised by the Irish Association of Seafood Companies (IASC) takes place in the Marriott Johnstown House Hotel and Spa in Enfield, Co Meath, on 28 and 29 March.

The show is a key event in the Association's calendar by providing an opportunity for both seafood processors and retailers to catch up on what's new in the industry and to network with fellow members from around the country.

Equally, it is an opportunity for those who sell to and support the trade to renew their acquaintance with customers, old and new, and do business both on the day of the show and afterwards.

Programme Saturday, 28 March

* 5pm to 8pm: Trade show * 6pm: Opening address * 8pm: Gala dinner (casual dress code)

Sunday, 29 March

* 9am to 9.30am: Registration

* 9.30am to 10.30am: IASC AGM

* 10am to 3pm: Tradeshow including buffet lunch

* 2pm: Closing address

Further details are available from Martina Clarke on 042 9386977 or check out the website www.iasc.ie

20

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

ISLAND LIVING

Loving life on Rathlin WENDY SCOTT

n the modern world of traffic jams, heavy workloads and financial stress, how often have we dreamed about being somewhere else, where there are no crowds, a slower pace of life, and a healthier lifestyle?

How many of us have visualised having the time to write that book and have picnics overlooking some idyllic scene while living away from it all, perhaps on an Island? Sounds like heaven Ð but does it exist?

In an effort to find out, Inshore Ireland looked at life on Rathlin Island, off the Antrim coast.

Over its sometimes tumultuous history, the island has been known as Rikina, Rachra and Raghery. Rathlin is an L-shaped island (nine miles by one mile), situated approximately six miles north of the seaside town of Ballycastle and fourteen miles from the Mull of Kintyre.

It has seen its popularity as a destination grow over the past five years, and I can understand why.

There's so much to see and

I

do here. A visit to the island is like a visit back in time Ð a complete joy.

Until recent times, Rathlin's population fell dramatically every year, from over 1,200 people in the 1600s to approximately 95 now. This decline is the result of various invasions (Vikings, Normans, English and the Clans) the emigration of almost 500 people during the Famine to America and England, and modern-day emigration.

Rathlin is believed to be one of the first islands to have been settled in Ireland. Evidence of Stone Age axes made from porcellanite found on Rathlin has been discovered all over Ireland and England.

Farming and fishing have always played a major role in economic life; for more than two centuries, up to the 1920s, Rathlin's main industry was kelp harvesting. A kelp store and kilns are still evident on the water's edge, overlooking Church Bay. Spending time on Rathlin, you get an enormous sense of community. There are concerted efforts to ensure people do not feel isolated, such as the Tuesday club for the older generation, and many evening classes, ranging from

Quality fresh local produce is used to produce delicious food at the Manor House, which has been awarded a prestigious Menu of Moyle award.

silver smithing and pottery to video link Irish language classes and keep-fit ceÂilõÂs.

With the arrival of the new community development officer, Sally, activities are expected to flourish. Rathlin is witnessing both a return of islanders and newcomers to its shores.

As one islander said, the biggest change has been the arrival of mains water, which arrived in some areas only within the last three to four years. Mains electricity only arrived in 1991 and 1992, and a new two-way sub-sea grid connection was developed last year.

Slowly, in tandem with these developments, an almost artisan community is evolving: organic farmers, local singers and writers, sculptors, artists, photographers and soap, bread and fudge producers have all taken up residence.

NO DECISION

Recently returned islander Douglas Cecil had spent eight years in the merchant navy: ``When it came to bringing up a family, there was no decision to be made. Rathlin is a great place,'' he said.

On average, most people have three to five jobs. The biggest employer is Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd, which employs approximately 10 people full-time.

Fergus McFaul, who returned to Rathlin from fishing in Donegal, has a number of roles. His real job, as he calls it, is skipper on one of the ferries, and at only 20 years of age, Fergus is immensely proud of his job.

He is also involved in the

family farm, crab and lobster fishing, and is a volunteer with the coastguard.

Liam McFaul and his wife, Alison, are organic cattle farmers, in addition to working with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and providing holiday cottage accommodation on the island. Liam is also a coastguard volunteer and helps out on the family boat, fishing for lobster and crab.

One of the young mums, Julianne McMullan from Portballintrae, told Inshore Ireland that at one time she was a classroom assistant, a volunteer with the coastguard rescue team, and a sheep, donkey and goat farmer. ``I love life on Rathlin,'' she said. ``The winters seem shorter, they just zip by Ð and it isn't everyone who gets a flight in a helicopter to have their first baby!''

Young islanders such as Imelda McFaul believe it is important to spend some time off the island to develop social interaction and coping skills ``which help you think outside the box''.

Inshore Ireland asked the younger islanders if they could see themselves spending their lives on Rathlin.

They all said they would like to, but that changes were needed, including more affordable and social housing, greater prospects for the younger generation, keeping the school open, greater land management, such as that carried out by the RSPB, and the development of a camping ground.

Most importantly, Ciaran felt, the shortage of young women should be addressed!

ABOVE: Church Bay. BELOW LEFT: islanders showcase their Menu of Foyle produce.

BELOW: Douglas Cecil and Fergus McFaul, Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd. PICTURES: W Scott

Rathlin Ð an island for all seasons!

MARY O'DRISCOLL RATHLIN ISLAND FERRY LTD SNOWDROPS are bravely peeping through the cold ground of Church Bay. The lus an crom chinn are cautiously lifting their almostclosed yellow eyes to squint towards the snow covered glens of Antrim, not sure whether to have a last 40 winks before bursting into a blaze of yellow Ð but spring

is stirring in a low rumble through the beautiful braes and banks of Rathlin.

And so the island wakes from its well-deserved slumber since November and the end of the summer visitors.

The oncoming season is faced with renewed enthusiasm and vigour by the islanders after the winter hibernation.

Paint brushes are out, hedges are trimmed and this year, a new package has been put together to entice visitors to

Rathlin Ð particularly in the shoulder season, when visitors are still a novelty and the islanders themselves can enjoy entertaining them sharing with them the unique and special place that is Rathlin Island. Who better to give a true and from the heart description of this beautiful place than the people who live here throughout all seasons.

Together with Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd., the people of

Rathlin have got together a Group Package to entice visitors to come along and meet local historians, craft persons, long-term island residents and the younger folk who live and make a living on Rathlin. The aim of the package tour is to escort the group from Ballycastle, meeting and greeting them in the Terminal Building. While still on the dry and steady land, the guide will give a short introduction to the island and the

ferry crossing across the sea of Moyle. En route, various landmarks will be pointed out, as well as giving visitors information about the ferry, its all-island crew and the importance of such a lifeline facility to an island.

Once on shore, the group will be guided along the sea shore, transported on an entertaining bus trip to the Sea Bird Centre, partake of homemade tea and scones and listen to tales of Rathlin's

long history Ð of Vikings, and Axe Makers, Clann Lir and Edward the Bruce Ð before meeting the modern day craft persons of the island who make beautiful products from the Island's natural resources, photograph the island in all its cloaks, and preserve the beauty and unspoilt environment to hand on to the next generation as a place apart, although only six miles from Ireland.

INSHORE IRELAND

February 2009

21

ISLAND LIVING

The future of Rathlin onor Murphy, Minister for Regional Development in Northern Ireland, spoke to Inshore Ireland about the future of Rathlin. ``We need a policy for the island. A policy that applies to all Government Departments, and ensures that these Departments do what they can to support a vibrant and viable community. We are currently developing that policy in conjunction with the islanders,'' he said.

Since raising the matter with the executive, a few of his colleagues have visited Rathlin, and some short-term measures have taken place, with long-term solutions to follow.

Inshore Ireland asked the Minister if there was a possibility of a Renewable Energy industry being developed on the island as a result of the new two-way grid connection. ``It does open up the possibility of renewable energy being sold back to the national grid, which could become an income stream for the island. Early discussions are underway with a company that ultimately could be very beneficial for island development.''

Minister Murphy has been praised by the North Antrim Sinn Fe in MLA Daithõ McKay, for his efforts in trying to get policy changed for Rathlin Island. Regarding policy change, Minister Murphy said the rules that apply to small towns and villages

C

White Park Bay looking out to Rathlin Island (Courtesy of Causeway Coast and Glens).

throughout NI also applied to Rathlin Island, whereby small populations were down the list when it came to decisions. the Minister is trying to change this.

* To listen to the complete interview, log onto our website at www.inshore-Ire land.com and listen to the podcast `The Future for Rathlin Island'.

ComhdhaÂil seeks support from private interests  MAJELLAÂNI CHRIÂOCHA  IN IN COMHDHA IL OILEA NA hEÂIREANN

acing the loss of Government funding at the end of this month, ComhdhaÂil OileaÂin na hEÂireann, the Irish Islands Federation, is now looking for support from private individuals to ensure it can continue to represent islanders' interests at a local, national and European level.

The organisation was established in 1984, and Comhdha il's board, comprising islanders from all around the coast, is not prepared to allow it to founder now when so much has been achieved.

ComhdhaÂil's chair, Simon Murray from Inishbofin, ex-

F

plains the rationale behind their campaign: ``We have come a long way since the 1980s Ð there are now daily ferry services to the islands, and there has been much needed development in terms of essential infrastructure. ``However, the islands' combined population Ð totaling just below 3,000 Ð is now more than ever at risk of falling in these difficult economic times. ``We need to ensure that our voice continues to be heard when policy decisions are being made by local and national Government Ð decisions that impact on islanders' lives and determine the viability of our communities.

That is why we are looking to friends of the islands to sup-

port our work. It is not possible to operate in today's local, central and European bureaucracies without having a worker to represent our interests. It is vital to all islanders' futures that this work continues, and that we succeed in fundraising through this initiative.''

ComhdhaÂil has asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Â CuõÂv, who has proEÂamon O vided considerable support to the islands over the last decade, to match funds they raise from private interests with Government funds, up to an agreed limit.

The Minister has often expressed the view that communities should not be overly reliant on support from the

State, but should match it with their own voluntary efforts.

Dan Reilly, Comhdha il's representative from Sherkin, who has a lot of experience in fundraising, said that the fact that they themselves were putting their shoulder to wheel should encourage the Minister to provide funds which would undoubtedly leverage private funding. ``Islanders have many friends Рpeople who have memories of summers spent there, and the excitement of getting on the boat and heading out to the islands. I am confident that we can harness their support and ensure that there are vibrant communities on the islands for generations to come.''

Further information: Majella Nõ Chrõ ocha in 087 9776852,majella@oileain.ie

Rathlin...

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www.inshore-ireland.com

22

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

MARINE R&D

THE FISH HEALTH DIRECTIVE

Prevention is better than cure

T

LISA FITZPATRICK MARINE INSTITUTE

he success of any farm depends on the health of its stock. An outbreak of disease can wipe out the profits of any fish farming venture; the cost of prevention would be far less than that of solving the problem once it has struck, to say nothing of the loss of markets and reputation.

The new Fish Health Directive (2006/88/EC) requires both finfish and shellfish farmers, as well as those running put-and-take fisheries and commercial aquaria to establish `biosecurity' measures to prevent diseases from infecting stocks, and to keep records to ensure that disease outbreaks can be quickly detected and controlled adequately.

BIOSECURITY

The introduction of the oyster disease, Bonamia ostrea to Ireland in 1987 and its

subsequent spread to several areas around the country, in addition to the recent outbreak of Infectious Salmon Anaemia (ISA) in Scotland bring home the importance of better biosecurity and immediate reporting of increased mortality, both of which are required under the new legislation. While Ireland remains free of ISA, previous outbreaks in Scotland in 1998 and 1999 cost in the region of £100m to resolve.

Ireland remains free of many fish and shellfish diseases that occur in other countries, and the aim of the Fish Health Directive is to prevent the outbreak of disease, thereby making our aquaculture industry more competitive and profitable.

The price tag for this prevention will be additional paperwork and reporting for finfish and shellfish farmers, put-and-take fisheries; commercial aquaria; shellfish depuration plants; shellfish dispatch centres and holding

centres, and aquaculture processing establishments that either handle infected material or are engaged in sanitary slaughter, following an outbreak of a listed disease.

A register of transporters must also be compiled under the new legislation; once this is in place only registered transporters can be used to transport finfish and shellfish.

CRITICAL SIGNPOSTS

This may seen unreasonably tedious; however four vital facts must be remembered: * The Fish Health Directive is aimed at preventing the outbreak and spread of disease, the occurrence of which would mean loss of stock, profits and even the future of the affected farms Ð as well as nearby farms who might contract the disease * In view of the risks at stake, compliance with the Directive is MANDATORY. It cannot be ignoredanditwillnotgoaway.

Farmers who do not comply will lose their aquaculture

Staff checking a salmon cage at Marine Harvest's Lough Swilly farm

licences and be unable to operate. * Help with compiling the paperworkandcompletingthe management plans is availablefromtheMarineInstitute, which has been given responsibility by government for implementation * The deadline for receipt of applications under the Directivehasnowpassed.Everyday that a fish farmer delays in seeking help or submitting an application to the Institute is a day closer to them losing their licence to operate.

Speaking to Inshore Ireland, Catherine McManus, technical manager with Marine Harvest, said that the new fish health directive was ``important for the bio-security of our industry. Ireland has a small and precious aquaculture industry that must be nurtured and protected. ``We cannot afford to allow the inadvertent introduction of disease on this island. This new directive gives the industry ownership of its

health status, which is welcome.''

CHECKLIST FOR COMPLIANCE

To obtain authorisation:

* completeanapplicationform

and submit it to the Marine Institute, together with a fish health management plan detailing a risk-based fish health surveillance scheme * maintain appropriate records; good hygiene practices; action to be taken if there are increased mortalities, and action to be taken if an outbreak of a listed disease is suspected.

Once authorisation is obtained, the Marine Institute will carry out regular inspections; the frequency of site surveillance will depend on the type of trade that business is involved in.

Anyone who has not received information can call the Institute on 091 387200 or download the application form from www.marine.ie/ fishhealth . Assistance in filling in the form and in draw-

ing up the Fish Health Management Plan can also be obtained from the Fish Health Unit of the Marine Institute.

Sample management plans, as well as a summary of the main points of the legislation, can also be downloaded from www.marine.ie/fishhealth.

This new directive gives the industry ownership of its health status, which is welcome. To notify the Marine Institute of movements or suspicion of a listed disease, fax 091 387201, email notification@marine.ie or write to Fish Health Unit, Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co Galway.

The draft Code of Practice for Finfish Aquaculture in Ireland and the supporting Fish Health Handbook may also assist businesses holding finfish, in preparing biosecurity plans. These are available from The Irish Salmon Growers Association, Irish Farm Centre, Bluebell, Dublin 12.

Coastal management stymied through absence of national strategy VALERIE CUMMINS CMRC

I

t is an established fact that a successful approach to integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) requires a combination of `top down' (regulatory approaches) and `bottom up' (participatory approaches) to management. CMRC researchers have been building capacity in this area for over 15 years.

Applied and practice-based research activities have yielded insights into potential models for coastal and marine area management in Ireland.

These have included projects such as the Bantry Bay Charter project; the CoCoNet initiative (Coastal Communities Network); the recently completed Corepoint (Coastal Research & Policy Integration) and the ongoing IMCORE (Innovative Management for Europe's Changing Coastal Resource) projects.

A direct outcome of the Interreg IIIB COREPOINT

project in Cork Harbour was the publication of the Cork Harbour Integrated Management Strategy, launched in May 2008 by Minister MicheaÂl Martin. The strategy's aim is `to bring all those involved in the development, management and use of Cork Harbour together in a framework which encourages the integration of their interests and r esponsibilities t o achieve common objectives in a sustainable manner.'

Currently, industry partners, public sector representatives, NGOs and academia are working together on the delivery of an action plan based on this Strategy. This initiative is being co-ordinated by the CMRC and Cork County Council and is being funded through the Interreg IVB IMCORE project, which extends to 2011.

Researchers within the Centre's Coastal Governance Team have been profiling these national case studies, as well as international approaches to best practice in ICZM. The Team encompasses ex-

pertise across a wide range of topics, including coastal policy; law; administrative structures; decision- making process; capacity building; sustainability science and conflict management.

The Team is also participating in the EU SPICOSA project, which looks at issues of fundamental conceptual science such as systems approach, complexity, resilience and vulnerability.

Funding has also been received from the EPA Strive programme to build capacity for adaptive co-management as a model for participatory governance in planning for climate change in the coastal zone.

The Cork Harbour Strategy is unique as it is a local level initiative with a long-term view and a commitment to the delivery of ICZM. In the absence of a national strategy, however, it operates within a vacuum, alongside other worthwhile initiatives such as the Clew Bay Marine Forum and the Dublin Bay Management Plan.

Wavebob W

INSHORE IRELAND

February 2009

23

MARINE R&D

A master class in open innovation WENDY SCOTT

hen we think about renewable energy, we think of developing technologies and new initiatives Ă? but does all of the technology have to start from scratch? Apparently not, as proved by Wavebob, one of the world's leading wave energy technology companies who have adopted an `open innovation' strategy.

Open innovation occurs, when a company looks beyond the bounds of its own company for answers, and identifies other strategic partners who have a business interest in their development; thereby they are not re-inventing the wheel. ``Open innovation is a smarter way of developing complex technology,'' Andrew Parish, CEO of Wavebob told Inshore Ireland. ``We opted for an `open innovation' strategy because it speeds up the pace of development; it is quicker, better, cheaper. It gives us access to world leading technology in areas where we are not world leaders and it keeps the costs of the overall development down.''

Wavebob was founded by William Dick, a physicist in 1999; the company now has bases in Maynooth, Belfast and Annapolis, USA. Their innovation which is also known as a Wavebob, generates energy or what is referred to as `blue power' from waves.

HOW DOES WAVEBOB WORK? Wavebob is a unique wave energy converter which, when fully commissioned, will be located in deep water where it will not be subjected to cresting waves, but to large ocean swell.

Wavebob works on the same principle as a bicycle pump. There are two main parts to the working apparatus: a round doughnut-shaped section called a torus; and a separate float which is located in the hole in the centre of the torus, which has a larger weight suspended from it; this weight is located under the water.

The larger weight moves up and down in the water at

a different frequency to the lighter doughnut-shaped torus. The two devices are connected together through a central column, and as the system moves up and down, it pressurises a hydraulic circuit which drives an electrical generator.

Wavebob has strategically identified three key market areas for their product: * Commercial scale, wave farms * Offshore oil and gas platforms * Single deployment units, which can be deployed in disaster zones.

Wavebob has aligned itself with strategic partners for each of the identified market areas.

Regarding commercial wave farm developments, the company has aligned with Vattenfall, one of the largest power utilities in Europe and has established a joint venture company with them to develop wave farms in Ireland. To satisfy a requirement for long distance wireless networking to control a farm of `blue power' generating buoys, Wavebob is partnering with Intel Labs Europe.

Within the next 15 years, Andrew Parish foresees there will be wave farms of between 100 and 200 machines generating between 200MW and 400MW of power (each MW generates enough electricity for over 700 homes).

The second key market area identified is offshore oil and gas platforms. There are about 7,000 platforms around the world, most of which have to power themselves by running generators onsite, which is extremely expensive.

Wavebob recognised that if these platforms could capture the surrounding free `blue energy' then this had the potential of being another lucrative market. Once again, utilising the `open innovation' strategy, Wavebob aligned itself with Chevron, one of the largest oil companies in the world.

The third key market area identified was rapid deployment of single units that could be taken to areas in need. For example, areas affected by natural disasters such as tsunami, earthquakes, famine etc. Key partners in the sector are Navies who are able to tow a Wave-

Open innovation occurs, when a company looks beyond the bounds of its own company for answers, and identifies other strategic partners who have a business interest in their development

bob behind a ship and deploy it where it is needed.

Andrew Parish told Inshore Ireland that he did not feel these partnerships would only come from outside Ireland. The ocean energy sector could `benefit immensely' from working with the Irish fishing industry, he said. ``We are currently working out of Killybegs because there is a level of expertise you don't see anywhere else and which has come straight out of the fishing community.

There is a really strong positive message here, at a time when they find their livelihoods threatened; this offers an opportunity to re-invigorate a dwindling industry''.

`WHITE PAPER' TARGETS As to the whether the Government's target of achieving 500MW of energy by 2020 was achievable, Parish said he had `no doubt' that Eamon Ryan, Minister for Natural Resources, was committed to achieving these targets: ``I have no doubt also that Wavebob can go a long way in helping to attain these targets.''

He added that the targets were `ambitious but achievable' only if the necessary support infrastructure and funding was made available to support all stages of development.

He believes a lot of money goes into necessary basic research at the universities but cautioned: ``It will not be the ideas sitting on the desks of the universities now that will help the Government attain their targets in 2020. The reality is that the targets will only be attained by companies who are currently in the water testing. There is less recognition for the value of `close to market' research, in commercial companies''.

Inshore Ireland asked Minister Ryan if he felt the interim target of 75MW was achievable by 2012. He said it would be ``extremely challenging'' but, coupled with the support measures being put in place, ``the sector was being encouraged to move towards prototype and array development testing, rather than being a `binding target'''.

He added that Ireland was `well placed' among the industry leaders as Ocean energy develops into a commercially viable global industry. ``Over 120 people are already employed in the ocean energy industry and research and estimates of employment potential range from 2,000 to 5,000, depending on the value content that we can build in Ireland.''

Wavebob is a unique wave energy converter which, when fully commissioned, will be located in deep water where it will not be subjected to cresting waves, but to large ocean swell.

Responding to criticisms that despite the Ocean Energy Programme being launched over a year ago, only a small proportion of funds had been released to date, Minister Ryan said he remained ``committed to the development and furthering of ocean energy policy'' to create a viable industry in Ireland. ``Much of the work is already taking place in terms of research, demonstration and development and the importance of this work cannot be underestimated. We must test this technology and that takes time. The Ocean Energy initiative is beginning to start its challenging work and, this year, I am committed to making its funding freely available for upcoming projects.'' ``The high tariff available for companies looking to get involved is already acting as an incentive and attracting business to our shores. Soon, companies will be in a position to connect to the grid. We are the best placed country in the world to create an ocean energy industry and we must take advantage of this.''

Inshore Ireland also understands that 15 expressions of interest have been filed regarding the prototype fund.

One-third of these have already proceeded to full proposal stage and the first grant assistance awards will be made within weeks.

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Bantry / Dunmanus entry

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www.marine.ie

24

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

SHIPPING SPOTLIGHT

signs on Dublin partially sheltered Positive marine tourism from international slump E

D

JOHN HEARNE

espite the depressed economic forecast that is lashing these and global coasts, a glimmer of hope is confirmation that Dublin is still punching above its weight in terms of international shipping.

Just before Christmas, Transport Minister Noel Ahern officially opened the new offices of d'Amico Group in Sir John Rogerson's Quay.

Established in Ireland in 2002, d'Amico has grown to employ more than 30 staff.

The company is a specialist maritime transporter engaged in the movement of energy products.

The Irish company is responsible for providing strategic and commercial management services to a fleet of 65 dry bulk and oil products tankers operating worldwide.

It recently announced an investment of $700m in its shipping fleet. Ireland is developing a growing momentum in the specialist shipping services industry with investment expected to exceed more than 1bn over the next 24 months.

STENA CUT HARWICH SERVICE Economic woes and Sterling weakness have been blamed for Stena Line's decision to cut the Rotterdam Harwich route from a three-vessel operation to two from next month. With volumes falling on each of the three ro-pax

Dublin in strong position to ride out shipping storm. vessels, Stena management took the decision to remove the third vessel, citing the decline in unaccompanied freight and trailers.

A buyer will now be sought for the 16,800-gt Stena Transporter which will be placed in a lay-up berth in Rotterdam.

Departures will also be cut from three-per-day to two.

With analysts predicting that the British economy will bottom out this year and return to growth by the second half of the year, Stena remains optimistic that the trade will improve. The company has two vessels on order which are due to come into service in 2010.

FREIGHT RATES DROP TO ZERO Cut-throat competition and declining trade has forced ocean freight rates down to zero in Asia-Europe trade for the first time since records

began. Reports say that lines have reduced charges down to extras such as bunkering and currency adjustment factors only. Lloyd's List reported last month that, in some extreme cases, inclusive rates from North China to Europe had fallen as low as $200 per teu.

Although statistics have yet to be collated, industry estimates suggest that cargo liftings in December were down as much as 20% on 2007 levels, while there has been no sign of the usual January revival.

Export data out of the Far East confirm these trends.

Korea's exports fell by 30% last month compared with a year earlier. Meanwhile, recent monthly data report a 42% decline in exports from Taiwan and 27% slump in goods and services leaving Japan. China has also reported declining volumes in key materials such as steel,

PICTURE: G Mills electronics and textiles.

STEADY INCREASE IN CONTAINERSHIPS AT ANCHOR AXS-Alphaliner report that the numbers of boxships at anchor swelled to 165 towards the end of last year as the slump in trade reverses the economic argument for keeping them in operation.

Total idle capacity at the end of December stood at 430,000 teu, up dramatically from 300,000 teu a fortnight earlier.

This represents around 3.5% of the cellular fleet, a similar figure to that reached during the last downturn in 2002. Continuing depressed trading conditions however have lead market commentators to conclude that the numbers of containerships at anchor will rise further in the coming weeks.

merging signs that the Cork/Swansea ferry route may shortly be reinstated offers a much needed boost to both the south west and the tourist trade in general. Campaigners report that a new operator has committed to running the CorkSwansea service on a year round basis under an Irish flag, with a mixture of passenger and freight traffic.

In addition, both Cork County Council and Fa ilte Ireland have promised marketing funding, while a threeyear package of discounts on docking fees has sweetened the financial profile of the deal.

With 70% of the financial backing now in place, only that final 30% must be sourced to get the service up and running. Estimated to be worth around 30m to the local economy, the service was withdrawn two years ago when Cork Swansea Ferries announced it could not find a vessel to replace the 35year-old MV Superferry that had to be sold because of its limited capacity.

Tourist businesses in the Cork/Kerry hinterland eagerly anticipate a restoration of the British car touring business which collapsed in the aftermath of the withdrawal of the service.

Some 25% of British tourists still travel to Ireland by sea, and security and capacity constraints at Irish airports have fostered a mini revival in ferry tourism to Ireland.

At their recent launch for 2009, FaÂilte Ireland cautioned that the coming year would present one of the most difficult trading environments ever seen by the tourist in-

dustry. 2008 saw a collapse in US tourism and a substantial contraction in British business Ð and there are no signs that the economic woes that lie behind these slumps will end.

But there are positive developments. In May, Galway will host the only British or Irish stopover in the Volvo Ocean Race. The event integrates the west into a global network of 10 ports from Alicante to Singapore to St Petersburg in Russia. It will also offer the tourist industry a unique opportunity to showcase the country's many charms and those of the western seaboard in particular.

Over 140,000 visitors are expected for the fleet arrival, in-port racing and the obligatory two-week festival that will accompany the sailing.

Estimates put the economic dividend from the stopover at 43m.

Moreover, the tourist agencies report that their funding for the coming year remains intact, and that the marketing and development budgets for the nation's many maritime events have survived the knife so far.

Meanwhile, across the water, the North Wales port of Holyhead has said that it plans to revive its cruise sector, with a major investment in a new berth. Due for completion in 2010, the berth will be developed by Stena Ports, the owner of Holyhead, together with Anglesey Aluminium.

With a price tag of 13.5m, the investment is a response to the sharp decline in cruise passenger numbers in Holyhead last year when the port lost business to a new facility in Liverpool.

Brigantines, barquentines and fully-rigged ships set to dominate Belfast skyline WENDY SCOTT

M

aritime enthusiasts from across Ireland and Britain are set to ascend on Belfast Port on August 13 for the arrival of 20 tall ships en route from Halifax, Canada, as part of Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009.

Speaking at the launch of the four-day festival, Dr Gerard O'Hare, chairman of the festival board said that the event will be action packed for families, sailing enthusiasts ``and indeed anyone looking for a good day out''.

Northern Ireland Tourism Minister Arlene Foster said the event will place the international spotlight on North-

LEFT: Mir pulls ahead at the race start off Northern Ireland in 1991.

ern Ireland this summer: ``This event will leave a legacy worth £1m towards berthing facilities at Queen's Quay, Thompson Dock and Abercorn Basin, which will help develop sailing and tourism here and provide infrastructure improvements to support Belfast in attracting major events in the future.''

The Belfast Maritime Festival is supported by Belfast City Council; Belfast Harbour Commissioners; Northern Ireland Tourist Board; the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure the Department of Social Development and the Department for Enterprise, Trade and Investment.

Further information from:

www.gotobelfast.com/belfast maritimefestival or www.tall shipsraces.com/atlanticchal lenge/

INSHORE IRELAND

February 2009

25

2009 FISH QUOTAS

Deathbyathousandinadequatecuts The fate of fish stocks at the December Council meeting in Brussels

I

EDWARD FAHY n spite of the criticisms directed against it, the method by which fishing allocations are decided annually in Brussels has proved robust Ð the exercise was repeated for the 26th time in December.

Each year, fishing opportunities within EU and adjoining waters are assessed to ascertain the proportion of fish biomass that might be exploited in a sustainable way. Scientists from individual member states pool their findings at working groups under the aegis of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), which is adviser to the EU Commission.

When the data justify it, working groups propose the quantity of fish that might be harvested without endangering the recuperative potential of the remainder. Where the outcome of these exercises is uncertain, a precautionary approach is supposed to prevail, and landings levels should be conservatively set.

The powers of the Commission are limited to ensuring that the provisions of various governing treaties are adhered to and to initiating proposals for legislation.

The Commission also exercises powers delegated to it by the Council of Ministers and it formulates opinions.

Fishing plans for the following year are proposed within these terms of reference.

Only the Council of Ministers has powers to adopt legislation, and Fisheries Ministers take the final decisions on matters within their competence, including the fate of fisheries plans.

Whatever their individual

qualifications, Fisheries Ministers are primarily politicians. As such, they are also bosses of those who carry out biological assessments in or as agents of their ministries.

A fisheries scientist who has recommended a certain course of action while assessing a stock may well find him or herself arguing for a more generous allocation of resources to keep the home industry in business come December Council meeting time. As politicians, Ministers are also subject to representations from constituents.

And there are few more adept lobby groups than those representing commercial fishers.

There is nothing that concentrates the mind so much as the prospect of being hanged the next day. The December Council meeting, held a few days before Christmas, must culminate in decisions that come into force on the first day of the following new year. It is something of a ritual joust.

The Minister is accompanied by a retinue of officials, advisers and a claque of fishers' leaders. And because any contest is evaluated on the mettle of its combatants, it is very important that a Minister should be seen to put up a fight and not settle anything too quickly. The quotas the Minister will bear in triumph Ð or shame Ð on return follow automatically from the level at which the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) has been decided because that is distributed in pre-determined proportions.

The opponent with whom he or she will trade blows is the Commission that proposes the TAC. For a Minister who is articulate and competent, the

In spite of the criticisms directed against it, the method by which fishing allocations are decided annually in Brussels has proved robust.

December Council meeting is an opportunity to shine.

The build-up to it is not unlike the anticipation of any sporting contest.

Press reports of the preliminaries for the 2008 meeting described it as possibly `Armageddon' in which the Minister would face a very tough task. December Council 2008 would be a bruiser, expected to run all night. Fishers' leaders supplied the slogans that urged their standard bearer to ``robustly defend Ireland's position'' and ``reject proposals that run counter to the sustainable development of the Irish industry''.

We have become familiar in recent years, particularly recent months, with our Government's predilection for dealing with big business. It is probably little different in fishing than it is in the building trade. The Federation of Irish Fishermen (FIF) is made up of four national producer organisations united under a single banner.

FIF claims to speak for everyone but, in fact, it represents larger vessels, probably amounting to no more than 25% of all boat numbers and fewer than half of all who fish for a livelihood. Its members' interests cannot be the same as those who work inshore on half-deckers, although many of the largest boats also work very close to the coast, unlike the situation which prevails in Britain, for instance.

TO THE VICTOR, THE SPOILS In these straitened times, we all need friends. Politicians and the lobby groups were united in mutual congratulation after the December Council.

FIF praised the resilience of Irish Ministers who overturned proposed cuts in landings of some economically vital species and increased Ireland's share of others. In its turn, the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Food (DAFF) was fulsome in its gratitude to FIF with whom the Minister ``had worked over the past number of weeks''. Breathless with relief, DAFF dashed out a press release measuring its triumph.

Individual quotas can be placed in one of four groups: whitefish (cod, haddock and prawns); pelagic species (mackerel, herring and tuna); industrial species (blue whiting and argentines) and others (deep sea bony fishes and elasmobranches, shark like species).

[The total value of quotas obtained in December 2008 was identified in the press release as 202m and the same document valued whitefish opportunities at the same

amount. Both statements cannot be true Ð for one thing, whitefish accounted for only 18% of the total 183,000 tonnes of quotas.

In fact, neither figure is accurate although the sum of 202m has since passed downstream into the broadsheets and trade press as an established fact.

Working on values for landings in 2007, the latest published (possibly not too far out either because the industry has been complaining about low prices), quotas are estimated to value approximately 550m. The value of whitefish was approximately 95m.

SCIENTIFIC VERSUS INDUSTRY ADVICE DAFF acknowledged the assistance of FIF who proposed adopting measures to avoid the closure of the north-west whitefish fishery; FIF, we were told, provided invaluable advice on restrictions in the use of gill nets. There was no mention of any agency advisers such as SFPA, BIM or the MI.

The cosy cabal of politicians, civil servants and the more powerful players in the catching sector has not been the most fortuitous of combinations over the years. Stakeholders should, naturally, be involved in plans to exploit marine resources and potential stakeholders with legitimate interests are several.

Tourism and recreation should also have their place in the allocation of fish stocks; however, only commercial fishers Ð and not even all commercial fishers Ð effectively lobby.

Big boats and bigger ambitions are often accompanied by enormous financial needs.

Fishers' leaders see their role as goading their Minister(s) to browbeat the Commission into wringing the last fish out of the negotiations for their members. As a result, scientifically justified and recommended TACs are often exceeded Ð that is a matter of record. The end result is declining fish populations Ð sadly, that fact is all too obvious.

One of the high profile victims has been cod, some

of whose European stocks are currently in recovery programmes but there are many others, particularly among whitefish, which may be the reason that whitefish is so often referred to in the DAFF press release and might explain the excessive value attributed to its quotas.

Between 1988 and 2009, combined whitefish species' quotas to Ireland declined by 45%.

Cod headed the list at 85% and whiting followed at 69%.

Then came saithe, 57%; plaice, 51%, and sole, 29%.

Individual quotas can be placed in one of four groups Ð whitefish, pelagic species, industrial species and others

It's a Bug's life!

B

ack from the dizzy heights of winning Boat of the Year Award for `Best Dinghy' at Sailing World in the US, the Bug is now set to take Europe by storm.

Designed and built by LaserPerformance, this innovative dual rig system allows for easy and economical sailing. The Bug accommodates young sailors from championship racers to beginners. It is also a `two-in one boat': perfect for sailors transitioning from one rig to the other or for families with lots of keen sailors, including Mum and Dad! The standard Bug rig is ideal for training novice sailors and building the confidence of young racers. The sail can be reefed by furling it around the mast so that the sail area can be adjusted to fit the sailor or wind conditions.

The sail, which is made of Dacron and is very durable, comes in a choice of four colours.

A second design is the Bug Race, which is aimed at the more seasoned racing sailor who wants a competitive boat. The sail fits onto a unique Power Curve topmast section that is pre-bent to create a wing-shaped sail plan for a boat that's fast and exciting. The rig comes

with a radial Mylar sail in two designs.

The Bug has a unique feature* Ð a wheel inserted near the bow negates the need for a trolley and allows the Bug to be easily moved around the boat park! *Optional extra and comes with integral carry handles * For more information Ð visit www.laserperformance.com or contact your local dealer. * McCready Sail boats, Holywood, Northern Ireland. sail@mccreadysailboats.co.uk * Dinghy Supplies: Dublin , Ireland. dinghy@indigo.ie

SPECIFICATIONS

* Length = 2.6m * Beam = 1.3m * Draft = 0.9m * Sail area = 3.8m Ç * Race sail area = 5.3m Ç * Hull weight = 46kg * Capacity = 1-2 people

The Bug can be transported on a roof rack Add to all this, the versatility of the Bug's other modes. Oars and rowlocks can be added for a stable rowing tender; the oars store inside the hull. Or alternatively you can pop an engine on the back for a motorised tender!

26

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

COASTLINE NEWS

Clare traditional boat and currach study 2008

I

DARINA TULLY

of boats were identified in

education. The study showed

use within the county.

that in addition to being im-

n the summer of 2008,

Currachs and gandelows

portant physical cultural ar-

an audit of the tradi-

make up more than half of

tefacts, traditional boats are

tional boats and cur-

the 220 heritage boats now on

also strong symbols of local

rachs of Co Clare was

the inventory. A total of 70

identity.

under taken

t he

currachs were found, display-

Research into other aspects

author. A steering group of

ing eight different styles; the

of maritime heritage noted in

interested parties was set up

most numerous styles are the

the study has a national sig-

under the direction of Con-

West Clare currach, of which

nificance, such as the value of

gella McGuire, Clare Heritage

39 were identified.

traditional

by

boats

to

local

officer, and Tomas Mac Con-

Over 60 gandelows Ð the

mara, Heritage Project offi-

flat-bottomed dory-style boats

At the maritme summer

cer.

of the Shannon estuary Ð

school in Glandore last July,

economises.

The project produced an

were found, displaying six

Henrick Boland of the Eur-

inventory of traditional boats

regional styles. Other boats

opean Maritime Heritage As-

and currachs that established

recorded

heritage

sociation gave a overview on

a priority list for their future

barges, angling boats, clinker

the economic value of tradi-

conservation. The study also

lake boats, classic sailing

tional boats. He highlighted

examined the local variations

dingys and yachts, and a

how investment in maritime

in traditional boat and cur-

number of wooden half deck-

heritage can have a direct

the EU attract around 25

rach building, and associated

ers and trawlers.

contribution to local commu-

million visitors and generate

customs, usage and typology.

The Clare study noted that

nities Ð not only as a means

around 500m in revenue.

The audit was confined to

the problems of the fishing

to continuance boating tradi-

The Heritage officers of

boats deemed to be `heritage

sector, particularly in the

tions, but also in monitory

Clare, the Clare Heritage For-

boats'. In keeping with the

case oftraditional net fishing,

terms.

um, the Heritage Boat Asso-

definition of heritage under

need to be highlighted, as

the Heritage Act 1995, heritage boats were defined, for the purposes of this study, as

the near future.

were

He outlined the experience

ciation and the West Clare

they will directly affect the

in other Europeans countries

Currach Club are to be com-

numbers of working boats in

where small investment in

mended for the work they are

restoring traditional craft,

undertaking to preserve their

dissemination

traditional boats.

A study of this type gives

vessels over 25 years old.

50ft fishing boat at Kilrush boatyard.

of

informa-

The

study

was

part

fi-

The project found that Co

an idea of the size of the

tion, regattas and festivals

Clare has three distinctive

heritage resource to heritage

have all had a direct return

nanced by the Heritage Coun-

areas of water-based trans-

managers. Publication of the

in increased visitor numbers

cil; a synopsis is available in

port: the dynamic West Coast,

report is also an endorsement

and tourists.

a colour booklet from Clare

the Shannon Estuary and the

of the work of the many

He reported that the 500

County Council. Details are

relatively

of

individuals and groups in-

annual traditional boat regat-

available on their website at

Lough Derg. Thirty classes

volved in preservation and

tas and open days throughout

www.clarecoco.ie.

calm

waters

Photo: D Tully

Boats at risk rescue scheme A new initiative is now

can no longer undertake

underway to provide sto-

ongoing maintenance or

rage for traditional and

restoration.

heritage boats.

The

Irish

Small boats can be col-

Water-craft

lected and storage is cur-

Collection is providing cov-

rently available in West

ered storage free of charge

Cork, Limerick, Cork City

for boats at risk or while

and West Waterford.

boats are awaiting restorations.

The long-term objective is to find storage in other

Ownership will remain

areas of the country. More

with the owner, but the

information is available

collection will also accept

from project co-ordinator

abandoned boats or dona-

Diarmaid Murphy at 087

tions of boats if the owners

9291009.

YoungsailorshavetheirsightssetonLondon2012 In the coming issues of Inshore Ireland, this column will report the progress of Ronan Wallace and Alistair Kissane in their bid to represent Ireland at the London Olympic Games 2012 with their 49er Olympic sailing skiff. In the following extract from Ronan's diary, the sailor learns two very important lessons

OCTOBER 2008

board tack, we sailed her up

ing tide, leaving a nasty chop.

problem... After two failed

had snapped Ð a measure of

and were feeling fit; however,

Cold, overcast. Let's go sail-

under the south side of Ire-

Neither of us passed com-

attempts, we bore away; I

how violently we had been

exiting one of our gybes we

ing! The wind was northeast

land's Eye, using the shelter

ment.

jumped into the cockpit to

propelled forward.

let the leeward wing dip, and

and brisk. ``No problems,'' I

to make some final, fiddly

remember reassuring Ali.

adjustments to the rig.

Sailing upwind wasn't so

hoist the assymetric spinna2

This made sailing on star-

capsized.

bad. The waves, however, did

ker Ð 40m

of raw power!

board difficult, and tacking

The boat turtled (the mast

We launched the 49er with-

We had both underesti-

make flat wiring difficult (the

Yes! I rejoined Ali on the wire

or gybing from one side to the

sticking straight down into

out difficulty from the public

mated the sea state. The wind

crew use wires to extend

as the boat took off. We over-

other

the sea) just outside Mon-

slip in Howth. Leaving the

wasn't that strong, but was

their bodyweight). Coming

took one, two, three, four

Home was now the goal.

harbour mouth on the star-

now running against a flood-

back downwind would be the

waves. Then the back of a

We sailed out to sea on a

pulled the boat back up, we

particularly steep wave rose

port tack, took down our

heard a resounding crack. I

up before us; we had nowhere

mainsail and limped back to

looked at Ali, and suggested

to

the slip. We expected the

that our mast had made that

piers to be lined with disap-

sound. He reminded me that

proving

instead,

as an engineer he could as-

experienced a dramatic decel-

there were nods of approval

sure me that the sound cer-

eration. The stern rose out of

and a few pats on the back.

tainly wasn't that of a carbon

the water, and the two of us

JANUARY 2009

composite splitting.

With Howth slip undergoing

was folded neatly in two. We

Ben, who was doing his best

renovations, we relocated to

limped back to port once

to keep up with us in a RIB,

Du  n Laoighaire's National

again through a group of

and how I was going to stran-

Yacht Club (NYC). This had

young laser sailors who had

gle him if he hadn't captured

many advantages, not least of

followed us for a while for

the moment on video. Then I

which its status as a place

their amusement.

checked to make sure I hadn't

where sailing gets noticed Ð

Two days later, we had a

broken anything. All was ok.

crucial if we are to secure

new mast, and were back on

sponsorship

the water. Lessons had been

go,

and

the

boat

just

ploughed into it.

With the bow buried, we

were catapulted forward.

My first thoughts were of

We righted the capsized boat to discover that the bun-

to

impossible.

seamen;

for

our

kstown DART station. As we

When the rig came up, it

cam-

paign.

trapeze

The first day sailing was a

wires on the right-hand side

disaster. We had trained well

gee

Ronan Wallace and Alistair Kissane on their 49er Olympic sailing skiff.

next

retaining

the

The back of a particularly steep wave rose up before us; we had nowhere to go, and the boat just ploughed into it.

The stern rose out of the water, and the two of us were catapulted forward

learned. One: this business is expensive; and two: don't do engineering in TCD!

For more on the sailors, check out their website at www.49er.ie or contact Ronan by email on rwalla ce@tcd.ie

INSHORE IRELAND

February 2009

27

OUTSIDE IRELAND

Canned salmon centre of the world

A

GILLIAN MILLS EDITOR

s the sign says, `welcome to the capital of salmon'. Everything about Ketchikan resonates of this king of fish Ð from the signage to the clothing to the very street talk. So I discovered on a trip to this Alaskan town as a guest of John West Seafoods.

This largest state of the USA is 1,700km2 or just over 20 times the size of the island of Ireland. To the north is the Arctic Ocean; to the south the Gulf of Alaska and the Pacific Ocean and to the west is the Bering Sea. To the east it borders Canada.

Due to its remote location of 64oN and 152oW and population of roughly 670,000 or one person per square mile, the surrounding waters are some of the cleanest and most natural marine environments on the planet, and produce 85% of the world's supply of wild salmon.

Alaskans are passionate and very protective of their resource. So much so that in 1959 when the territory became a State and took on the management of its fisheries, they enshrined into their constitution that `fish...be util i s e d ,

d ev e l o p e d

maintained

on

the

a nd

sustained

.

In other words, fisheries conservation and sustainability became State law. yield principle'

ECOSYSTEM

``Alaska is the only State to have written such conservation language into its constitution Ð and I don't know of any other country that has it either,'' says Randy Rice, seafood technical programme director of the Alaska Marketing Institute.

Sustainability is a well used catchphrase but when it comes to seafood, ``it means that fisheries can exist longterm without compromising the survival of the species or the health of the surrounding ecosystem,'' he says.

About 2.1m square kilometres of Alaskan waters are designated Marine Protected Areas. The objectives are to conserve habit and biodiversity, increase scientific knowledge and educational opportunities and protect cultural heritage and fisheries management. ``This is not just a recent rush to get green, there's a history behind it,'' he says.

Most fisheries in Alaska have been under `limited entry' since 1976 when a cap was introduced

For marine biologist Scott Walker, who works for the Department of Fish and Game, it's all about sustainability: ``We have escapement levels for each salmon species (pinks, coho, sockeyes, and chum) and for each system.

We have a set of index escapements that we fly each year Ð usually several times Ð each time attempting to get a `peak' count. My job is to fly, walk or skiff these areas to ensure we have good escapements.

Sustainability is never more than a sentence away: ``With our own control, we fish at levels we feel the area can handle; each area has its own level of harvest due to the escapements that we see in our surveys,'' he explains.

Some of their management decisions are based on science, some on ``feel and experience'', and ``some on what we physically see and count,'' he adds. ``We have a small piper cub aeroplane that we use every day in good weather throughout the summer season. In the south-east region, there are about 2,000 index streams for pinks, about 50 for chum and 20 for cohos.

Walker explains that the pinks are a two-year fish (having spent roughly 1.5 years at sea). ``When they start scattering to their streams and we see the streams fill up, we then allow commercial fishing.''

Salmon management in south-east Alaska is mostly State controlled, and harvesting is broken into various types such as commercial, subsistence, personal use and sport fishing.

Federal government however has a `toehold' in some subsistence fishing that occur in freshwater, as Walker explains: ``They have this small amount of control because the fresh waters are in the Tongass National Forest.

They would like more control and are constantly trying to butt into our fisheries.''

Federal law states that subsistence needs come before commercial harvest needs. ``There are a few places where federal subsistence fisheries occur in fresh waters. Federal government wants us to shut down commercial fisheries to provide for more subsistence harvest.''

So, what are subsistence fisheries? ``It's all about a definition that has been put into regulations,'' he says. ``If you live in a particular place (non-rural), you're doing a personal use fishing; if you live in another place defined as `rural' then you are subsistence fishing.''

To add to the confusion, some entire areas however are defined as `subsistence areas' and others as `personal use areas'.

Ketchikan is also on the route of many cruising liners. Up to six vessels may stop there for a few hours at any one time.

ABOVE: Steve Crosgrove and Nancy Wendy quality test up to 30,000 cans per year. ABOVE RIGHT: Ketchikan Creek runs through the centre of the town. At the height of the season, salmon are clearly visible leaping clear of the water

``In Ketchikan for instance, one section has a high `native population' and is actually considered `rural' and yet on both sides and around Ketchikan, it is considered `non rural' and we can't subsistence fish there as a rule.''

With subsistence fishing a few circumstances allow the sale of fish that is caught, usually when the fisherman is a native or lives in an area defined as `rural'. ``I'm not allowed to sell anything I catch; however the person living next door to me who may have the same colour skin is allowed because their ancestry has historically bartered or traded animals.''

RAPID RESPONSE

When it comes to management and enforcement, Walker can open/close a fishery almost instantly: ``If there's a concern that fishermen are going to harm the resource I can stop everything Ð but I better have a good reason and the facts to back up my decision,'' he explains. ``I can change regulations and make emergency, temporary changes that are usually set for 30, 60 or 90 days. ``Almost the entire fleet

would be on standby. I can email or fax the information to the processors who get it out to their members. We also contact the local newspapers and can call in the coastguard if it's an emergency and they will announce the change every hour on the weather channel.

Most of the fisheries in the State of Alaska have been under `limited entry' since about 1976 when a cap was introduced. For example, seiners (about 400) have access all throughout south-east Alaska and can fish in any area that is open. ``Each fishery has an area that it has been allocated to.

In south-east Alaska and mostly State wide, we can't just increase one gear group's allowance as it would have to come from another group.''

The three largest gear groups are gillnetters, seiners and trollers. The trollers (using a weight carrying 10 leaders with hooks) fish mostly for cohos and Chinook whereas the seiners target pink salmon for volume.

Gillnetters work on a one to two person crew; the boats are also smaller and they operate in a smaller designated area.

Once again, conversation is brought back to stock sus-

tainability Ð and not just in relation to Alaska: ``Because we have the ability to catch a lot of Canadian sockeyes and the potential to damage their runs, we have the Pacific Salmon Treaty which limits the take of salmon in south Alaskan waters.

It also keeps the Canadians from catching too many `American' fish in the south regions of Canada.

PROCESSING FRENZY

The harvesting process begins with the salmon being pumped using refrigerated salt water into tender vessels that return to the canneries; this process continues unabated for about six to eight weeks, depending on the particular salmon run.

Unloaded by wet pump to maximise protection, the fish cross a grading table where they are sorted into species and re-weighed and held in refrigerated holding bins at 0oC. This process takes about two minutes.

Each year quality assurance staff for John West Foods Limited sample and examine between 20,000 to 30,000 cans in Seattle, Washington, to ensure that only the best quality salmon receives their label.

Nancy Wendt, technical

manager for John West Foods Limited, North America, takes up the story: ``The canneries are striving to minimise the time between the fish being caught and canned. This will ensure that the fish are at their peak condition and, thus, ensure the best possible quality. ``We take quality control very seriously in John West and work extremely closely with our suppliers to help achieve this objective. A quality standard manual is circulated and this is the benchmark for the canneries to use in selecting the fish for John West cans. We then, in turn, examine samples that are representative of the production batches to ensure that all adhere to John West standards. ``These quality tests look at everything from colour, taste, texture, the condition of the cans and also the pH level of every can. ``The number one concern for John West is the quality and food safety. This will never be compromised in order to achieve market demand quantities. If the product does not adhere to the outlined standards, it is rejected and if we are short on our quantities, then we are short,'' she says.

28

INSHORE IRELAND February 2009

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