Inshore Ireland Vol 5 nr 2 May-June 2009 by Inshore Ireland Publishing

Bimonthly

incorporating

News from the coast and inland waterways

Aquaculture Ireland SEA ANGLING Getting hooked at any age Pages 14-15

May/June 2009 Vol 5 Issue 2

INTERVIEW

Efficiency is essential Enda Connellan, chief executive of Dublin Port Company discusses the impact the economic downturn is having on the port :

Wrong signals T

Pages 16-17

Comment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Aquaculture News . . . . . . . . . . 18 Your view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Marine R&D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Freshwater focus . . . . . . . . . . 8 Island living . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

WORLD first

ISGA lashes out following Court ruling

GERY FLYNN & GILLIAN MILLS

he Irish Salmon Growers Association (ISGA) has lashed out at what it describes as the `dismissal on a technicality' of legal proceedings against a seafood processor charged with falsely declaring and selling Scottish farmed salmon as wild Irish salmon. This charge refers to the second of two cases taken within a week by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) against well-known seafood processors and retailers, Wrights of Howth. A statement from the FSAI, referring to the first case

heard on 18 and 19 March, expressed `satisfaction with the outcome of legal proceedings in relation to Wrights of Howth, Galway Ltd of Unit 2, Galway Harbour Enterprise Park.' It notes that `after a partial hearing' before Judge Aingeal NõÂ ChonduÂin in Dublin District Court, `when authorised officers from the FSAI and the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority gave evidence, Wrights of Howth, Galway Ltd entered a plea of guilty to all seven summonses on which they were charged' (see page 4). According to the FSAI, these proceedings followed an investigation by its authorised officers into breaches of food legislation as part of routine FSAI labelling and traceability audits conducted between 7 Decem-

ber 2006 and 27 September 2007. Quoting Judge NõÂ ChonduÂin at the hearing, the FSAI statement reads:

`Whilst she was looking at this case in the light of a product area where there are loose practices, she hopes that this will change. Saying that whilst she understood how businesses work, the consumer was at the end of this. She said that she was sending out a message not to do this again. As a consequence of the plea entered by Wrights of Howth, Galway Ltd, they are to make a contribution of 5,000 to the Children in Hospital Fund and to make a contribution of 10,000 to the costs and witness expenses of the FSAI. The matter stands adjourned for one week for payment.'

>> Page 4

The world's first UNESCO international Global Geopark was established in 2008 around the Marble Arch caves network and Cuilcagh Mountain Park, between Fermanagh and Cavan. See story page 26 PICTURE: Fermanagh Lakelands Tourism

Strength in Unity for all Aquaculture Producers JoinTODAY - Call 01 4508755 - or visit our website www.ifa.ie Home of The Irish Salmon Growers’ Association The Irish Trout Producers’ Group & The Irish Shellfish Association

NEWS

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

`Extraordinarily flimsy evidence' cannot be relied on to regulate shellfish farming

BY GERY FLYNN FEATURES EDITOR hellfish farmers and processors as well as public health regulators throughout the EU are weighing up the implications of the latest statement by the influential European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) of the effect of processing on levels of certain marine biotoxins in bivalve shellfish such as mussels. Issued on 25 March and officially termed a `scientific opinion', it builds on a similar statement issued in 2007 and is the result of a European Commission request `to elaborate further on the influence of processing' on the levels of

two specific groups of marine biotoxins: okadaic acid (OA) and azaspiracids (AZA) which triggered a `rapid alert'

The statement confirms that steaming mussels causes a 30% to 70% increase in the concentration of OA-group toxins in the whole flesh

by the French authorities last year after higher than acceptable levels were detected in processed mussels imported from Ireland. Due to `limited information available at the time', the opinion declares that earlier opinions on marine biotoxins `did not specifically assess the effect of processing of shellfish'.

Focusing on the effects of cooking on biotoxins, it confirms that steaming mussels actually `causes a 30% to 70% increase in the concentration of OA-group toxins in the whole flesh.'

Significantly, however, it notes that when mussels are cooked at higher temperatures Ð for example in an autoclave (a specialist device mainly used in laboratories to sterilise equipment by subjecting them to high pressure steam at 121ëC or more), the toxic concentration increases to between 70% and 84%. The cause of the increase, says EFSA, is due almost entirely to water loss from the mussel flesh into the cooking liquid. Significantly too, EFSA points to evidence that heat processing also appears to redistribute toxins (OAgroup) from the digestive gland of the shellfish throughout the remaining flesh. `This indicates that the analysis of whole shellfish flesh, as opposed to the digestive gland, might be more appro-

priate for regulatory purposes, particularly when processed shellfish is analysed,' it notes.

Based on what it terms the ` limited information available ' to the Contaminants Panel (CONTAM) Ð the expert group that supervised the tests Ð the opinion concludes that ` Processing of

shellfish leads to an approximate two-fold increase in the concentration of lipophilic marine biotoxins in shellfish meat.' Based on that finding, EFSA now advises that `Since limit values of marine biotoxins in shellfish meat are meant to protect the consumer, the effect of processing should be considered when testing shellfish in official control.'

Looking EU-wide, it calls for a `harmonisation of pre-

treatment practices (i.e. cooking versus non-cooking) before the actual analysis of lipophilic marine biotoxins are carried out'.

Azaspiracids belong to a group of toxins first discovered in Ireland in 1995. Ever since they have been a recurring feature in Irish marine waters and continue to pose a risk management problem for the shellfish industry and for public health regulators. So far, 20 different AZA types, or analogues, have been identified. An EFSA opinion released in June 2008 set the EU regulatory limit for azaspiracid equivalents at 160 microgrammes/kg of shellfish meat.

The statement notes that when mussels are cooked at higher temperatures Ð for example in an autoclave (a specialist device mainly used in laboratories to sterilise equipment by subjecting them to high pressure steam at 121ëC or more), the toxic concentration increases to between 70% and 84%.

Industry reaction

peaking to Inshore Ireland , IFA Aquaculture executive secretary Richie Flynn, who is also the current president of the EU's Aquaculture Advisory Group, revealed that he had already raised the EFSA opinion at the last meeting of that group. ``Following that, the EFSA has now been asked for nine separate opinions on nine different issues to do with biotoxins Ð including AZA. These are to be delivered to the EU Commission by late summer. ``I would expect the Commission then to meet with all of the industry stakeholders by this autumn.''

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Flynn emphasised that, at this stage, there was no move by the Commission to change the regulation reducing the level of AZA in raw, unprocessed mussels. ``I made the point strongly that if levels were reduced based on the findings outlined in this opinion, it would in effect be shutting down the Irish mussel industry''. Flynn said the Commission was ``taking a sanguine view of these matters and could not have regulations or opinions that would actually shut down entire sectors of the European aquaculture industry. ``It's IFA Aquaculture's view that the EFSA opinion

is actually based on extraordinarily flimsy evidence going back to incidents in Arranmore and Killary 10 years ago which were never properly investigated. ``It should be remembered too that because Ireland is so dependent on mussel exports, we are, in fact, the only European country that monitors azapiracids on a weekly, and in some cases, a biweekly basis. So, if any changes were made to the regulations our mussel producers would be affected far worse than any others in Europe. ``Changing the regulations now without more information would not be fair.''

The EFSA Ð what

does it do? he European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) was created as part of a comprehensive programme to improve EU food safety, to ensure a high level of consumer protection and to restore and maintain confidence in the EU food supply. In the European food safety system, risk assessment is done independently from risk management. As the risk assessor, EFSA produces scientific opinions and advice to provide a sound foundation for European policies and legislation and to support the European Commission, European Parliament and EU Member States in taking effective and timely risk management decisions. EFSA's remit covers

food and feed safety; nutrition; animal health and welfare; plant protection and plant health. In all these fields, EFSA's most critical commitment is to provide objective and independent science-based advice and clear communication grounded in the most up-to-date scientific information and knowledge. EFSA's goal is to become globally recognised as the European reference body for risk assessment on the areas it covers. Its independent scientific advice underpins the European food safety system and due to this system, European consumers are among the best protected and best informed in the world as regards risks in the food chain.

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

NEWS

Is there light at the end of aquaculture licensing tunnel?

GERY FLYNN FEATURES EDITOR overnment commitment to solving the licensing logjam which is preventing expansion of the aquaculture industry here has been reinforced by the revelation that discussions between Irish and EU officials are on-going, and have also involved a bilateral meeting between the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and the EU Environment Commissioner. This was Minister of State Tony Killeen's key message at the IFA Aquaculture conference in Kenmare where he underlined ``government confidence'' in the industry by committing 3.8m for new developments in 2010 and 1.4m specifically for data collection to support aquaculture licensing in marine NATURA 2000 sites. ``We have to face up to the fact that there are licensing

and regulation issues facing your industry now that cannot be circumvented or walked away from. We cannot just pretend they don't exist,'' Minister Killeen declared. He said it was time also, as a nation, to rid ourselves of the misconception that we were somehow ``too good at being Europeans, that we are the first to do the right thing when it comes to enforcing EU Directives''. He said: ``The truth of the matter of course is quite different.

DIRECTIVES

``We were among the slowest to embrace and deal with environmental directives, and the result is that we are now paying the price for that in some respects. If we had dealt properly with these issues even 10 years ago by identifying our SACs and SPAs, we'd have fewer problems now, and it would be a lot less expensive too.'' The Minister also linked the difficulties with licensing

and regulation in aquaculture with the length of time it had taken to put in place the new grant aid schemes under the 2007-2013 Operational Programme. `Ì know this has been a matter of great frustration for you, but let me assure you we share your frustration,'' he said. He confirmed that his departmental officials were continuing ``to work very hard to try and clear the logjams, including those outside of the Department which are holding up progress in these vital areas'', and he revealed that `èxtensive discussions have been taking place at various levels to resolve the issues''. He said that the bilateral meeting between DAFF's senior Minister Brendan Smith and EU Commissioner for Environment Stavros Dimas ``had gone a long way to advancing matters''. `Òf course, the licensing of any activity in a coastal region must take into account

Fishermen's federation welcomes CFP green paper but questions the analysis GILLIAN MILLS EDITOR THE Federation of Irish Fishermen (FIF) has welcomed the publication of the European Commission's green paper on the Common Fisheries Policy, which kick starts a 10-year review, saying it represents the start of a ``vital and overdue reform process'' but takes ``major issue'' with much of its analysis. According to FIF chairÂ CinneÂide, the man, LorcaÂn O document makes clear that the Commission ``finally accepts the need for `wholescale [sic] reform of the CFP' which is a welcome acknowledgement of the position of the Irish industry for many years.'' A consultation period will follow until the end of 2009, with the substantive political negotiations to be completed by 2011. ``It is vital that the Irish Government and fishing industry engage fully in the process to maximise Ireland's national position,'' he warns. ``We have to use every effort to influence this process as it is effectively the last chance for a future for the Irish industry and, indeed, FIF have already begun to do so. ``We cannot have a halfhearted rollover of existing

policy as has been the case in previous reviews. ``We have vessels operating under crazy and complex regulations at present in a system that mitigates totally against sustainable stocks or sustainable livelihoods. That cannot be allowed to continue. However, we must also ensure that the cure is not worse than the disease, so to speak, and that is always a risk,'' he said.

POLITICAL RESPONSE

Speaking at the EU Fisheries Council in Luxembourg, Brendan Smith TD, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, said the paper was the `first step' in the reform process: ``In the current economic climate, it is critical we succeed in delivering a policy that both simplifies and reduces the administrative burden while, at the same time, strengthens and supports the industry's capacity to maximise employment in coastal communities dependant on fishing. ``We strongly favour an industry that delivers jobs for many in coastal communities rather than the concentration of wealth in a few big international fishing businesses with no obvious benefit for Irish fishing communities.'' The Minister added it

would be `premature' to respond in any detail on the Green Paper at this juncture: ``Suffice to say that, in Ireland, we will be engaging in an intense period of consultation with stakeholders before presenting our final position on the issue. ``It has always been my belief that it is only with the buy-in of stakeholders will this or any other strategic policy objective be successful''.

STRATEGY

Speaking of the unveiling of a strategy to develop the aquaculture sector, Minister Smith said that the Ireland was `well placed' to capitalise on the growth in demand for aquaculture products in Europe. ``I wholeheartedly welcome [the document] with its emphasis on environmental sustainability, safety and quality of EU aquaculture production. ``With meaningful stakeholder inclusion, it has the potential to provide the appropriate framework for the sustainable development of the EU aquaculture sector. ``In the current global economic environment, I believe we can further develop the Irish aquaculture industry in a sustainable manner to maximise the undoubted potential that exists,'' he said.

Westpoint Shellfish, Ardgroom, Kenmare Bay.

the likely impact on the area in which it is to be located. Interactions between aquaculture and the environment are subject to increasing control and regulation given the importance now attached to conservation and environmental protection and the potential impacts which aquaculture may have on the natural coastal environment. ``I am sure that as people who place pride in their local

area you will appreciate the need to ensure those aquaculture activities do not impact negatively on the local environment,'' he said. Regarding regulation of the aquaculture industry, Minister Killeen said that to prosper in today's farmed seafood market meant ``embracing quality assurance, having an expert and in-depth knowledge of the market and to innovate. ``I urge you all to partici-

pate fully in the excellent Quality Assurance Schemes that BIM have created for your product. The more participation and products that carry the quality mark, the more successful the entire process will be. ``I would ask you to bear with us. We are working hard on your behalf and together we will make sure that the Irish aquaculture sector achieves its undoubted potential,'' he concluded.

Marine Institute

Foras na Mara

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

NEWS

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

* From page 1

The FSAI welcomed the ruling saying that `the legal

proceedings strong

warning

businesses food

should

that

legislation

send all

food

breaches

will

not

tolerated.'

The FSAI statement further reveals, however, that seven similar summonses against Mark Wright, a director of Wrights of Howth, Galway Ltd, were struck out.

SECOND CASE

Less than a week later, on 23 and 24 March, the FSAI took a similar case against Wrights of Howth, West Pier, Howth, Co Dublin, and two of its directors, Mark Wright and Steve Foster. Judge Watkin dismissed the charges and awarded costs to Wrights of Howth. This case was brought following an investigation by officers of the FSAI into the offer for sale of salmon labelled `Irish smoked wild salmon' at Dublin airport in April 2007. In a written clarification to , the FSAI confirmed: `There were 46 summonses relating to two infringements, as follows: Inshore Ireland

the

false

declaration

salmon bearing the label `Ir-

Donal Maguire, BIM.

Richie Flynn, ISGA.

ish Smoked Wild Salmon' and

out by Judge Ann Watkin over

`Area 27', whereas the salmon

the

had in fact been farmed.

bring

the

false

declaration

salmon pre-packaged product listing the ingredients as `Irish Salmon', whereas the salmon had

fact

been

farmed

Scotland. The first infringement had 42 summonses: 14 on Wrights of

Howth, West

Dublin;

Pier,

Howth,

Mark

Wright, a director of Wrights of

Howth,

and

Foster, a director of

Steve

Wrights

of Howth. The

second

infringement

had four summonses: one on Wrights of Howth, West Pier, Howth, Mark

Wrights Steve

Dublin;

Wright, of

Howth;

Foster,

one

director one

director

on of on of

Wrights of Howth, and one on Ireland's

Eye

Seafoods

Ltd,

West Pier, Howth, Co Dublin. This infringement was struck

length

these

taken

summonses

time

court.

WRONG SIGNAL

Responding to invitation to comment on this case, Richie Flynn, ISGA executive secretary, said the outcome was ``regrettable and disappointing, with very damaging consequences for consumers, Irish salmon farmers and Irish jobs''. He added that it was sending the wrong signal to the fish processing sector and the retail industry that they could wrongly label fish of any origin in whatever way they pleased ``to the detriment of consumers, the image of Irish salmon and Irish jobs. Farmed Irish salmon is of the highest quality and is backed by full traceability and worldclass quality assurance Inshore

land's

Ire-

schemes. As a product, it can stand on its own merits and certainly does not need to be mislabelled,'' Flynn said. He added: `Èveryone in the sector knows that since the ban on commercial fishing for wild salmon there has been a severe shortage of wild product on the market. This should lead to greater support for top-class conventional and organic Irish farmed salmon, and that any mislabelling of product so that retailers and processors alone achieve an inflated margin should always be an offence.'' Flynn has called on the FSAI and the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to `ùrgently address any weakness in laws and regulations to ensure that future prosecutions for mislabelling are successful''. Donal Maguire, aquaculture development manager with BIM, said that he would have to be cautious in commenting at this stage in light of a possible judicial review application by FSAI. `Ìt is clear that regardless of the rights or wrongs of particular individuals or companies, there is a serious flaw in the legislation whereby consumer interests are not being served by the current confusion. A product should

contain what it says it contains on the packaging, plain and simple.'' Maguire added that the case for properly policed assurance schemes had been strengthened by what had happened. ``At least in such a scenario, strong action could be taken, regardless of possible legal loopholes, and consumers would be confident that they were actually getting what they had paid a premium for,'' he said He would not speculate as to why the case had failed, adding that the question had

CASE 1: 18-19 MARCH

to be put to the FSAI. ``I do know that they went to very considerable lengths to gather top quality evidence. BIM believes it is vital that the FSAI should try to ensure proper labelling of all seafood products. ``It seems poor drafting of the law may have been at the core of the issue in this case,'' he said. As regards an appeal, the FSAI confirmed it was looking at its options in relation to a judicial review. `We have

not made any decisions. Any further comments are not appropriate at this stage.'

The charges to which Wrights of Howth, Galway Ltd pleaded guilty to were: * The false declaration of the method of production for salmon darnes which described them as `caught at sea' (the purpose of this terminology denotes the fact that they are wild), whereas they were actually farmed. * The false declaration of the catch area for salmon darnes as `FAO 27' Ă? `N. East Atlantic', whereas the true country of origin of the product (which must be declared for farmed products) was Norway * The false declaration of a Portuguese premises approval number on cooked whole crab (indicating that it processed in Portugal), when in fact the product was actually processed in Ireland * Not being able to produce on inspection, marking or labelling or commercial documentation as required under law to ensure traceability, for several products which included salmon and scallops and, therefore, being unable to authenticate their origin or method of production.

May/June 2009

COMMENT tnemmoC

INSHORE IRELAND

Marine industry can influence recovery of economy THE Irish economy, once the envy of the world, is now in deep recession. Other countries too are facing economic turmoil, with rising unemployment, financial institutions in severe difficulty, and governments scrambling to slow, if not halt, the worst effects of the downturn. Traditionally dependent on farming, Ireland has been very successful in attracting foreign multinationals to locate here. Almost 90% of our exports and more than two-thirds of the country's R&D is now generated by such firms. Research and development has been hugely beneficial to the Irish State, creat-

ing many jobs and greatly adding to the national tax take. With changing economic conditions, many of these multinationals are looking to cheaper cost locations, as Ireland has priced itself out of the labour market. Many businesses are now trying to stay afloat but are having difficulty accessing bank credit to fund dips in cashflow. The State is desperately trying to stabilise public finances as tax revenues plummet, and spending cuts are being implemented in all directions. Despite the gloom, however, perhaps the light will finally dawn on the fact that the

natural resource surrounding Ireland might just hold some of the answers. The Irish State has invested heavily in developing an aquaculture industry; however, it is now at a critical stage in its development. Entrepreneurs have been born from this sector Ð many of whom are highly regarded on the global seafood stage. The sector deserves all possible State support to preserve such precious businesses and jobs. The Irish government must take courageous decisions to support existing businesses, and be creative in developing

conditions to support entrepreneurs. Aquaculture offers opportunity in both of these areas but immediate attention is needed on issues such as licence renewal and access to funding. Creative thinking may be needed to help access funding for aquaculture projects. If the Irish State is prepared to guarantee personal savings through the bank guarantee scheme and recapitalise some Irish banks, surely a means can be found to help secure funding for projects/sectors like this?

Ð Diarmaid Mulcahy

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Effect of fishing subsidies on overcapacity DEAR Editor, As a reader of Inshore Ireland with a special interest in your `Outside Ireland' column, I am writing to share some concerns with the statement made by European Commission representatives at the WTO. The last meeting of the WTO's Negotiating Group on Rules (the Rules Group) in late March discussed the chair's roadmap on fisheries subsidies. Discussions centered on questions posed by the chair in his roadmap, relating to how subsidies may contribute to overfishing and overcapac ity ; whether or not to prohibit or allow other kinds of subsidies, and how to address the issue of `interchangeability' of subsidies. A report by the Third World Network (http://

www.twnside.org.sg/title2/ wto.info/2009/twnin fo20090410.htm) states that: `According to trade officials, the EU said that its subsidy programmes are aimed mainly at maintaining the small-scale fishing sector.' And further, `that the removal of subsidies often results in domination by big fishing fleets and companies' and that `the fisheries problem is one of boats.' This comes at a time when the Rules Group is discussing whether small-scale fisheries should be exempt from subsidies, and when the EC is about to kick off a public debate on the reform of the CFP (in the Green Paper Process) Ð a process where a key objective is to reduce fishing capacity in line with available resources.

Most worrying is that 30% of these subsidies went for constructing and modernising the largest vessels. Given `technological creep', the overall effect of the subsidies is likely to have increased fishing capacity in the Spanish industrial fleet

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If the Commission sees this problem as `one of boats', reducing capacity equates to reducing the number of boats, which hits the smallsector hardest, and which leads to fishing monopolies. The EC statement hardly reflects the realities in Europe, particularly for those European countries with large small-scale fleets. These include Spain, Greece, Italy, France and Portugal, which account for between 60% and 80% of the Europe's (EU 25) fishermen. For Spain, the fleet register shows some 8.10 boats below 12m; 2.20 boats between 12m and 24m and 1.10 larger scale vessels. Taking Spain as indicative, far from helping to `maintain the small-scale fishing sector' EU subsidies have bolstered the large-scale sector. Spain

received 40% of EU fishing subsidies over the period 2000 to 2006. Of these, 52% benefited the largest vessels; 36% vessels of 12m to 24m (where 19% was for scrapping), and with only 10% going to vessels below 12m. Most worrying is that some 30% of these subsidies went for constructing and modernising the largest vessels. Given `technological creep', the overall effect of these subsidies is likely to have increased fishing capacity in the Spanish industrial fleet. The high running costs and high fuel requirements of larger vessels means that such subsidies, combined with fuel tax exemptions, may have helped these vessels to remain profitable and to stay afloat. NGOs, therefore, question whether the

removal of subsidies would actually increase the domination of big fishing fleets and companies for which subsides are responsible. What is more, thanks to Fisheries Partnership Agreements; joint ventures and other arrangements, a large segment of the Spanish fleet fishes outside EU waters. In the West African and other regions, Spanish trawlers compete with the local artisanal sector for the same overexploited stocks, thereby jeopardising the future of the local small-scale sector. Not only have EU fisheries subsidies not helped the EU small-scale sector they have undermined the prospects for local small-scale fisheries in third countries. I feel that subsidies have a positive role to play in putting EU fish-

eries on a sustainable footing. But in order to achieve that, radical changes are needed. As part of the Green Paper process, the European Commission should evaluate how fishing subsidies could be used positively to promote more sustainable fishing both within and outside Community waters. With this in mind, subsidies should be prioritised for promoting more environmentally sustainable fishing practices to favour greater distributional equity, safer and better working conditions, and more localised and sustainable economic activity. In this regard, smallscale fisheries have a vital role to play. ÐBrian O'Riordan, secretary, ICSF Belgium Office.

Â CeallachaÂin Obituary Ð Damien O THE Irish aquaculture sector and the Gaeltacht community lost a great leader on 24 March when Damien OÂ CeallachaÂin died suddenly at his home in Leitir Chaladh, west Galway. TaÂ fear uasal, flaithuÂ il, eÂ irimiuÂ il imithe uainn gan coinne. Damien was an extraordinarily gifted man. He was a pioneer in the fish farming industry; a resilient entrepreneur; an eloquent spokesman for the sector and, above all, a man who loved people. While born and reared a proud Corkman, he took Connemara as his adopted home and made a great contribution to life in Cois Fharraige in the past 35 years. Damien was one of the great innovators of Irish aquaculture who began by developing the farming of oysters and mussels with Beirteach Teo, a subsidiary of Gaeltarra Eireann, in the late 1970s and early 1980s. At a testing time in the late 1980s, he served as chairman of Comharchumann SliogeÂisc Chonamara, the co-operative which helped to develop the native oyster and scallop resources of the south Conne-

mara bays on behalf of the local inshore fishermen. When UÂdaraÂs na Gaeltachta decided to promote salmon farming as a natural fit for the rugged coast line of the Gaeltacht, Damien was a key figure. He set up Muir Gheal Teo in Leitir Chaladh Bay in the mid-1980s and later built a partnership with other farms to take on the joint management of sites in Cill ChiaraÂin and Beirtreach Bays. He led the way in growing fine organic salmon, which is a key to the competitive success of the Irish salmon industry. Damien was a visionary, who believed in and embodied the integrated approach to the aquaculture sector. He helped to set up the Irish Seafood Producers Group in 1985 and the salmon packing plant, Cill Chiarain EÂisc Teo, and was a director of these firms for over 20 years. He supported the building of the Irish Seaspray smoking plant in Leitir MoÂir, which added value to the salmon product and achieved listings in top retail chains in Europe. In recent years, Damien was a catalyst for the development of the cod farming

Â Ceallacha Â in. Damien O

enterprise, Trosc Teo. One of Damien's mottos was `NaÂ geÂill go deo' [`never give up']. He faced and withstood great pressures during the past three decades in each of his ventures. Storms at sea; predator seals; high water temperatures in summer which triggered viral fish diseases; changing market demands; cashflow pressures from banks and suppliers and in recent years; a bureaucratic logjam in licences from the Department. Few of us can appreciate how tough these challenges were. Damien's response every time was to pick himself up; talk through the problems; find a creative way forward and plough on.

He became the chairman of the Irish Salmon Growers Association and worked tirelessly with Richie Flynn in tackling the issues. On 20 March, Damien and Joe Lee spent the day in Kenmare at an IFA seminar, where the industry put their case to Minister of State Tony Killeen. That night in the Kenmare Bay Hotel, Damien was as serene and optimistic as ever we have seen him. ``We have turned the corner,'' he said. As we now know, he was going home. We will all miss you, Damien. It is very hard to imagine a day in the industry, a meeting of the ISGA or a seminar with our Norwegian colleagues on the Trination PD initiative without Damien's infectious, sparkling, mischievous personality! We extend our deepest sympathies to his beloved wife and partner Joan, to their wonderful children MicheaÂl, Muireann, Cliona and Aoibheann, to the personnel in the many enterprises and to his circle of friends. Is cinnte naÂ beidh a leitheÂid arõÂs ann! Ð MicheaÂl OÂ CinneÂide

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 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

Green energy advocate challenges `fossil fired school of scientists'

EDDIE O'CONNOR MAINSTREAM RENEWABLE POWER

s an advocate of green energy, it is great to read an article by a fellow chemical engineer, Pat the Engineer. It is so laced with half truths, one quarter truths and no truths at all that it is quite easy to counter. I take it Pat the Engineer must belong to the fossil fired school of scientists. He talks about the distortion of prices that wind power and solar power force on the electricity consumer. Pat the Engineer surely knows that the fossil fuel

industry is subsidised by about $360bn USD every year. These subsidies can take the form of tax write offs, or paying for aircraft carriers to patrol the Gulf or indeed special concession for rights of way from Governments.

So, what is Pat the Engineer comparing the price of renewable electricity to?

He seems to be unaware that for eight years, while I ran another company I had founded, we sold wind generated electricity to 40,000 Irish customers at a price 10% less than the monopoly supplier, the ESB. We subsidised the price of generating fossil fired electricity for all of those eight years. We received not a

penny of grant assistance, or otherwise from the Government here. On occasion, we had to contend with severe anti-competitive practices from the people who ran the grid. Pat the Engineer must have had considerable influence in Ireland over the last number of years. His strange type of thinking led to the banning of wind energy connections to the grid for two years. We would like to ask Pat the Engineer the following questions. * How does he go about comparing a power station that has a high fixed cost, but a zero fuel cost with a power station that has a low capital cost, but with a high and

fluctuating fuel cost? * Where did Pat the Engineer come across `new find farms that will have a shorter life expectancy than thirty years?' * Could Pat supply this paper with some facts as to the costs of nuclear plant? * Who pays for the storage of plutonium for a quarter of a million years? * Who pays for the insurance premia for nuclear power? * How much uranium exists in the earth's surface, and how much will it cost when China erects thirty new nuclear power stations? The British and the German governments are paying 140 a MWhr, plus the grid costs to develop offshore wind. Unlike Pat, they realise

that the price will come down dramatically with the widespread deployment of technology. These governments appear to realise the value of photovoltaics and how technology is currently collapsing the cost. Why would anybody install photovoltaics in Ireland, one of the least sunny places in Europe? Surely the place for these is around the Mediterranean basin. Pat the Engineer wasn't clear on the economics of thin film photovoltaics in the Sahara. Wind energy has the following benefits to the electricity system: * Its marginal cost is 0. When the wind blows it collapses the electricity price for the custo-

mer as the most expensive plant is turned off. * It is a hedge against rising and fluctuating fossil fuel costs. In fact, it was shown if wind generated electricity went from 23% to 31% in Scotland, then the price to the customer would fall by 6%, and it didn't matter what price was charged for wind. The results were due to the risk reducing effect of wind. Wind energy also reduces the demand for fossil fuels, and therefore the price, so the cost of producing electricity in all the fossil generators fall due only to wind. Perhaps the Editor would like to explain to the readers what a chartered environmentalist (c.e.) is.

able projects have a shorter economic life than conventional generation. * Finland is building its 5th nuclear reactor, a new European Generation III unit. Less than 3m per MW for a system that will run almost continuously for 50 years, the same unit price as an offshore wind turbine, which delivers a variable 0.3MW * 1.7 billion years ago, 15 nuclear reactors of natural origin were running in Gabon in West Africa. Plutonium has moved less than 3m through

the surrounding rock. Nothing was spent on this storage. Nuclear waste is politics not technology. * Ireland pays over 3bn on electricity charges. The wind programme will increase this by more than 50%. Risk is a combination of likelihood and consequences. The likelihood of major accident hazards occurring is extremely low, so the resulting risk and associated premiums are also low and included in ExternE assessments. * The UN International Atomic

Energy Association estimates that uranium resources exceed 5.5 million tonnes. Energy output can be increased 60 times with emerging Generation IV technology, so there is enough for a millennium. The international ITER nuclear fusion reactor, upon which a former colleague and UCD engineer is working on in France, is likely to demonstrate commercial operation in 15 years time. Nuclear fusion uses water as fuel and essential ly generates no waste.

* The record for a solar powered boat (Sun 21) crossing the Atlantic is 29 days Ă? hardly faster than Columbus himself. * Wind is for racing yachts, in which one tries to stay ahead of the other crew. The price of wind energy won't come down dramatically unless the earth becomes twice as windy. A Chartered Environmentalist is a scientist who, by approved academic qualifications and work experience, is competent in environmental assessment and protection.

RESPONSE Inshore Ireland invited Pat

Swords to respond to the questions Eddie O'Connor poses in his letter `GREEN' `Green' depends on political and media spin. When Germany phased out land filling of municipal waste in 2005, their Green Party praised the 72 municipal incinerators. The Irish Green Party on the other hand obstructed the implementation of identical technology. EU Environment Policy, however, is based on the consideration of environmental impacts and the costs and benefits of protection measures with sensible regulation based on the principle of proportionality. It is the performance of the overall grid and not an individual power supplier that counts. A high pressure system on March 30 resulted in an output of less than 100MW for the next 36 hours from the 1,000MW of wind turbines on the Irish grid.

FOSSIL FUEL DEPENDENCY Do we manage without electricity until it is windy or use alternative means of generation? As we rejected nuclear energy our grid became almost totally dependent on fossil fuels. We need to reduce carbon emissions, but why not do so in a cost effective manner? A study by Eirgrid in 2004 concluded that 2,500MW of wind energy would in-

crease electricity costs by 24% over the no wind case. Indeed, 1,500MW of wind energy represented a carbon abatement cost of 120 per tonne. Irish policy is now to install 6,000MW. The University of Helsinki calculated that the increase in forestry in Europe since 1990 has had doubled the effect on Europe's carbon balance as all the existing wind turbines and solar panels, while carbon reduction projects in industry are available at 8 per tonne.

HIGH ELECTRICITY RATES The environmental impacts of all electrical generation technologies, including emissions, waste and accident risks are calculated in the EU ExternE programme. Industry in France pays 50% of our electricity rates, and France, like other Member States with nuclear power, has the lowest ExternE impacts. * The variability of wind energy makes our grid much less efficient. A nuclear plant uses less than three tonnes of fuel a year, which is only 20% of the electricity cost. It is the cheapest form of continuous generation available. * Stresses due to wind gusts have proven to damage turbine gearboxes after five years. The Government AllIreland Grid Study in 2008 recognised that most renew-

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

EU COMMISSION

Building a bridge between you and the EU The European Commission Representation in Ireland GILLIAN MILLS EDITOR THE European Commission Representation in Ireland is part of a network of representative offices throughout the Member States of the Eur-

opean Union. It is the Commission's voice in Ireland, and aims to communicate EU affairs at national and local level. Inshore Ireland asked the Dublin office about its role specifically relating to fish-

eries, aquaculture and maritime affairs: ``The Commission's role is framed by the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). It proposes legislation at EC level; manages EC funds earmarked under the CFP, and monitors the application of EC law. ``In some specific cases, the Commission also adopts de-

tailed technical rules. ``The Commission has started a review of the CFP to make it more efficient in ensuring the economic viability of the European fleets; conserving fish stocks; integrating with maritime policy and providing good quality food to consumers. ``The review will be based on an analysis of the achieve-

ments and shortcomings of * The consultation process the current policy, and will launchingthereformcovers look at experiences from all aspects of the Common other fisheries management Fisheries Policy and is open systems to identify potential to all EU citizens. * Visit http://ec.europa.eu/ avenues for future action. ``The consultation with sta- fisheries/reform keholders and the public be- * User'sguideandfactsheetson gan on 22 April and will last the CFP: ec.europa.eu/ until the end of the year, with fisheries/publications/ a view to adoption of a reform pcp2008_en.pdf in 2012.

AQUACULTURE

ON 8 April 2009, the Commission adopted an Aquaculture Strategy, which will give the sector new impetus as a source of healthy and nutritious food for Europe's growing and ever more demanding consumer market. The strategy sets out three main practical objectives: * To help fish farming become more competitive by continuingtosupportresearch(nearly 100m has already been invested) and by ensuring that in the planning process across Member States, the sector gains the access it needs to land and water. * To ensure sustainable growth by encouraging green production methods and by ensuring high animal health and welfare standards. * To improve the sector's image by ensuring a level playing field, reducing red tape and communicating with the public. The Union produces about 10% of demand at around 1.3m tonnes; South East Asia

LEGISLATION

WHAT about governance Ð what should the primary producers and secondary/ tertiary processors be aware of? How do they find out about new legislation and/or schemes that might be available? The creation of Regional Advisory Councils (RACs) was one of the pillars of the 2002 reform of the Common Fisheries Policy in response to the EU and stakeholders' desire to increase the latter's participation in the CFP process. The RACs prepare recommendations and suggestions on fisheries aspects in the area they cover and then they transmit them to the Commission or to the relevant national authorities. Submissions may be in response to a request from these bodies or on the RACs' own initiative. The RACs represent the fisheries sector and other groups affected by the CFP, while scientists are invited to participate at meeting level. The Commission and regional/national representatives of Member States may attend as observers. (The North Western Waters RAC has been operational since 2005 and BIM in Dublin runs its secretariat). The Advisory Committee for Fisheries and Aquaculture (ACFA) provides information on new developments at community level. The Aquaculture Working Group is chaired by Richie Flynn, IFA Aquaculture. * Furtherinformationfrom: The Commission's website on fisheries (http://ec.euro pa.eu/fisheries/index_ en.htm)

and Latin America provides about half of all the fish consumed in the Union. The EU accounts for just 2% of world aquaculture production and imports into Europe continue to rise. Fish farming across Europe has an annual value of almost 3bn and the sector employs some 65,000 people. The annual demand for seafood across the Union is roughly 12 million tonnes with France, Spain, Italy, Britain and Greece being the major players. Ireland produces about 60,000 tonnes annually Ð mostly mussels oysters and salmon Ð valued at about 100m per annum to the Irish economy. The EU believes there is room for growth in the sector, and it can bring wider benefits to coastal areas. * Further information on the Aquaculture Strategy at: http://ec.europa.eu/fish eries/cfp/aquaculture_pro cessing_en.htm

SEAFOOD INDUSTRY

REGARDING innovation, quality and building on Ireland's provenance in the Irish seafood industry, what role does/can the Commission play to ensure Irish seafood can compete in Europe? The Commission is interested in ensuring fair competition across the European market. Community rules provide free access to the Community market which is the largest fish market in the world, with no duties, no quantitative restrictions and common health rules. The common market organisation rules for fish (Regulation 104/2000) allows certain derogations for producers from competition rules. Producer Organisations (POs) are a fundamental feature of the market organisation in fishery products. POs FURTHER information on the European Commission Representation in Ireland: www.euireland.ie; eu-ie-info-request@ ec.europa.eu Tel: 01-6341111 Or write to The European Commission Representa-

are composed of fishermen or fish farmers associating freely in order to ensure that fishing is conducted on rational lines and work to ensure conditions of sale are improved. This can be achieved via catch plans; concentration of supply; stable prices and sustainable fishing. Community start-up aid is available for the first three years of operation of approved POs. Community rules on freedom of investment give Irish operators the right of investment in fish handling and processing operations in other Member States. * For information on EU rules applicable to the Irish food promotion agencies go to: http://www.europar l.europa.eu/sides/getAl lAnswers.do?reference=E2008-6771&language=EN

tion in Ireland, European Union House, 18 Dawson Street, Dublin 2

MARITIME AFFAIRS

THE European Commission has presented a comprehensive 10-year strategy plan to promote safe, secure, clean and efficient shipping. Long-term competitiveness of European shipping and related maritime industries in world markets, and the adaptation of the entire seaborne transport system to the challenges of the 21st century are at the heart of this strategy plan. ``The financial crisis and its impact on the maritime transport sector demands decisive action,'' according to Antonio Tajan, vice president responsible for transport policy of the EU Commission.

``We need to look ahead and to provide answers to the many challenges we face today, from keeping EU seamanship capacities, combating piracy and reducing the environmental impact of shipping,'' he added. The proposed strategic options are built on an allinclusive approach based on the new European Integrated Maritime Policy, and reflect the core principles of sustainable development, economic growth and open markets in fair competition and high environmental and social standards. Increasing globalised trade connections and developments in world trade, energy markets, climate change

concerns or security threats, all underpin the importance of seaborne transport. With over 80% of world trade being carried by sea, maritime transport remains the backbone of international trade. For the EU, the world's most important exporter and the second biggest importer, shipping and related services are essential in helping European companies to compete globally. The European shipping industry is also one of Europe's largest export industries. It provides transport services between Europe and the rest of the world and between third countries. In Europe, short-sea shipping carries

40% of intra-European freight in tonne-kilometres. With more than 400 million passengers passing through European ports annually, maritime transport also has a direct impact on the quality of life of European citizens (both as tourists and as inhabitants of islands and peripheral regions). * Further details from: http://ec.europa.eu/trans port/maritime/policy/in dex_en.htm * http://ec.europa.eu/ transport/maritime/stu dies/index_en.htm * http://ec.europa.eu/mar itimeaffairs/index_en.html

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

FRESHWATER FOCUS

Themany wonders of awetland

WENDY SCOTT

o you know where half of the world's medicines and three-quarters of the world's food comes from? Some may know the answer Ð others may be surprised to discover that the answer is from wetlands. Wetlands include ponds, marshes, swamps, lakes, rivers and their flood plains and coastal waters. They also support as diverse a range of wildlife as the areas they are found in Ð from the tropics to the poles. Inshore Ireland paid a visit to Ireland's only Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre, Castle Espie, in Strangford Lough, Co Down. Castle Espie is owned by the registered charity, `The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust' (WWT), which is a leading conservation organisation saving wetlands across the world. The WWT was established in 1946 by Sir Peter Scott, grandson of the legendary Scott of the Antarctic. Castle Espie is one of their nine visitor centre sites around Britain. Castle Espie is a 65 acre haven nestled on the banks of the magnificent Strangford Lough, which itself is regarded as one of the most impressive marine sites in Europe. First opened in 1990, the centre now attracts over 65,000 visitors a year.

One of the largest gatherings of swans, ducks and geese found on the island of Ireland are located there. Every year almost the entire population of Light Bellied Brent Geese spend their early winter months in and around the mosaic of wetlands provided on the Castle Espie site. The centre is fascinating. Around each corner there is something else to see or do. There are hides and nature walks dotted throughout structures, specifically designed to allow the visitor to get close to wild birds, mammals, plants, amphibians and insects that live here.

TRANSFORMATION

Situated just 12 miles from Belfast on a series of flooded quarries that were once the sites for limestone and clay extraction, the area is currently being transformed into an educational, recreational and events area which is ideal for schools, corporate days out and even weddings. Non-native species, such as 30-year-old conifers, had been affecting the water quality, so a decision was made to redevelop and to provide more facilities for the growing number of visitors. Re-development involved the removal of the conifers to enable saline lagoons, salt marshes, limestone and orchid rich grasslands to establish and regenerate. The first step in the process was to inform those who were

opposed to removing the trees about why it was necessary. The WWT also conducted a daily tour that they named `changing landscapes' to help the information process. Gradually those initially opposed realised that the changes would be environmentally beneficial. The new facility, which now makes Castle Espie a centre of excellence for biodiversity and wetland conservation in Northern Ireland, was officially opened in April.

ECO-VISITOR CENTRE

The new eco-visitor centre has many green features including a natural ventilation system. It uses rainwater to flush toilets, and vertical reed beds act as natural kidneys to clean the waste. Renewable energy is also gathered from wind and sun, and a wood pellet boiler provides the heating. At the end of your walk when you've seen the variety of ducks or have watched the Brent Geese, Breeding Waders or Ringed Pluvers, or have spent time playing with the kids in the `Stoat Town' play area, enjoy a relaxing coffee or visit the shop in the knowledge that all proceeds go towards maintaining this magnificent centre. *

The new facility, which now makes Castle Espie a centre of excellence for biodiversity and wetland conservation in Northern Ireland

Creating your own wetland

ver the coming isO sues, Inshore Ireland, in association with

Castle Espie will give advice on how to bring a bit of nature into your own surroundings. Castle Espie conservationists will teach us how to collect rainwater for use around the garden, keep our ponds healthy, or plant a reed bed to help reduce flooding.

For further details tele-

phone:

028

9187

4146;

(www.wwt.org.uk/castleespie).

Groundwater aspects Ð where a DONAL DALY EPA

more commonly known as `well water' and `spring water'. It provides about 25% of our drinking water supply in Ireland. In addition, groundwater is critical to maintaining river

flows, wetlands and surface water ecosystems. In most rivers in Ireland, more than 30% of annual average flow is derived from groundwater. In dry weather, this figure can rise to over 90%. Therefore, if

human activities have a significant detrimental impact on groundwater, it can affect not only drinking water supUNTIL recently, the focus on plies, but also surface water groundwater mainly conand terrestrial ecosystems. cerned its use as drinking The appreciation of the link water, which is why it is between groundwater, surface water and ecosystems is one of the main drivers for the requirements of the Water Framework Directive (WFD). Since 2001, significant progress has been made in Ireland in implementing the groundwater aspects of the WFD. * Up until 2005, groundwater was `characterised' by collection and evaluation of well data, new mapping of soils, subsoils and aquifers, and by assessment of groundwater quality data. * In March 2005, the risk to groundwater from human activitieswasreportedtotheEC. This reportindicated that 27% ofthecountrywas`probablyat significant risk', either from widespread sources of pollutionsuchasagriculturalactivities or localised sources such as old dumps, urban areas and sites Illustration of the potential sources of groundwater pollution in a rural area and the possible impact on industrial * In December 2006, updated wells and rivers

groundwater quality and level networks were reported to the EC. Improvements have continued since then, and in early 2009, the groundwater quality network consists of 275 wells, with sampling taking place every three months. * In December 2008, the interim classification of groundwater bodies (GWBs) into `good' and `poor' status was completed by the EPA. The results for each River Basin District are included in the draft River Basin District Management Plans which can be viewed on the website: www.wfdireland.ie. A statutory consultation period for these plans is currently in progress and continues until 22 June 2009, and the final RiverBasinManagementPlan will be published in December 2009. The determination of the status of groundwater bodies is a major step in understanding and managing groundwater in Ireland. It represents not only a snapshot of the current situation, but also provides a signpost to the future. The overall aim of the WFD is to achieve `good status' in all bodies of ground-

water by 2015, as well as preventing deterioration in those waters that have been classified as `good'. For each body of water, both the quantitative and chemical status has been determined. The quantitative status relates to situations where abstraction of groundwater for water supply or de-watering (such as quarries) has, or could cause, saline intrusion, or have an impact on a river or ecosystem. Unlike many other EU countries, however, over-abstraction is not a significant issue in Ireland, and only four (out of 757) groundwater bodies, representing 0.3% of the area of the country, were classed as `poor' quantitative status due to over abstraction. In contrast, the situation for chemical status is less satisfactory. 111 groundwater bodies were classed as `poor'. This represents 13.9% of the country (see map). These results are somewhat surprising. Microbial pathogens, potentially indicated by the presence of faecal coliform bacteria and nitrate are regarded as the most important pollutants in

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

FRESHWATER FOCUS

Edenderry Coarse Angling Club celebrates 20 years

BRENDAN CONNOLLY wenty years ago on May 10, 1989, the Edenderry Coarse Angling Club was established. Starting with a mere five members, this coarse angling club has grown into one of the most active angling clubs in Ireland. It has a current membership of around 80 members and plays a leading role in the Irish coarse angling calendar. Founding members, Pauric Kelly, Arthur Judge, Sean Breirton, Sean Kane, and George Slevin had fished the Grand Canal for years, and felt that forming a club would be the best way to look after the future of their sport. A major canal breach had occurred on January 14, 1989, west of Blundell Aqueduct near Edenderry, Co Offaly. This breach saw the bank of a raised section collapse and completely drain four miles of the canal, leaving fish floundering in the ditches and on the fields beside the canal. Extensive repair works by the OPW followed, with fish-

ery development work of the fishery boards restoring the navigation as well as the coarse fishing. Working in close co-operation with the club's main organiser, lobbyist and indefatigable leader Pauric Kelly, Dr Joe Caffrey of the Central Fisheries Board embarked on a fish survey and re-stocking programme of roach, rudd, perch, bream, hybrids, tench, and carp. The club organises about seven competitions each year. These are big events offering substantial prize money and attracting national and international anglers. The main event is the June Festival, which this year takes place from June 1, 3 and 5 on permanent pegs, with swims being cleared in advance. This competition is fished on three sections of canal, with each angler fishing each section in rotation on each of the three days. All sections are less than six miles from Edenderry and easily accessible. The competitions generally attract up to 75 anglers. 2007 was a record when 108 an-

glers participated. Usually more than half the entrants are British, with French anglers also represented. This year's festival has a prize fund of 15,000 and 3,000 worth of trophies. Categories will include daily individual section winners and overall winners, team prizes, and trophies and cash prizes for the first six places in the overall competition. In 2008, overall winner was local angler, 17-year-old Conor Browne who earned over 1,800 in prize money along with the festival trophy. The activities of Edenderry Coarse Angling Club are supported by sponsors that include: John Foley's Accelerated Drain Cleaning, Pat Morrissey's Solo Ltd,

Also, the vulnerability of these rocks (with shallow soils and subsoils, and sinking streams) results in high average phosphate concentrations in the groundwater. While `only' 14.2% of the

country is mapped as `poor' status, and this is likely to be less than most other EU countries, returning these areas to `good' nevertheless represents a significant challenge in the coming years.

Club secretary and PRO, Tommy Burke. Coarse fishing bait is a scientific business.

are we now? groundwater in Ireland, from a drinking water perspective. Yet, no GWBs are at `poor' status due to pathogens, as they are not a parameter considered by the WFD. Only 0.3% of the country is at `poor' status due to the presence of high nitrate concentrations in the vicinity of groundwater supply abstraction points. Also, pesticides in groundwater have not resulted in any GWBs being at `poor' status. In contrast, 13.3% of the country is at `poor status' due to the presence of phosphate in groundwater Ă? mostly in t he karstified and less intensive farming areas in the west of Ireland.

ECOSYSTEM

This outcome is thanks to two factors. Firstly, to the sensitivity of surface water ecosystems to phosphate, and secondly, to the impact of groundwater input and quality on surface water ecosystems. The latter is particularly relevant in the karstified limestone aquifers where the groundwater flow contribution to surface water is usually more than 60%.

Overall chemical status of Ireland's groundwater bodies.

Foy's pub, restaurant and guesthouse, Waterways Ireland and Sam Williams, stone mason. Without their support, it would not be possible to stage these large competitions, with up to 100 anglers lining out along the canal bank and catching up to 30lbs of fish Ă? all of which are returned to the canal. Because the waters at Edenderry have good stocks of roach, and because roach tend to spread out along the canal, the competitions are very competitive,

whereby few if any anglers catching nothing. Visiting anglers can also enjoy the best of hospitality during the festivals. Foy's restaurant, bar and guesthouse, Hogan's Guesthouse, Rita Tyrrell's Fisherman's Rest and Catherine Byrne Auburn Lodge B&B are all experienced in catering for anglers, and offer extra services such as packed lunches, evening meals and secure parking. Canal coarse angling in Edenderry is not limited to competitions. These waters

can be fished for free all year round. Edenderry CAC (http://www.freewebs.com/ edenderrycoarseanglingclub) welcomes individual anglers who respect the fish and the canal. The Grand Canal near Edenderry is more than a good roach fishery. Below the deceptively calm surface lurk large bream, bream hybrids, tench, and carp. So, be aware that if you fish with light fishing gear, you may hook more than you bargained for.

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

FRESHWATER FOCUS

Scaling the High Pyrenees to find a fishing paradise

BY WENDY SCOTT

ow many of us have witnessed the French when their rugby or football teams are playing Ð passionate is an understatement. But you have not witnessed anything until you have seen the first day of the fishing season: it is unbelievable, or as the French would say, `incroyable'. This year, Inshore Ireland was invited to experience just what fishing means to the French. Driving into the High Pyrenees just south of Lourdes and a few miles from the Spanish border, I was amazed at the number of fishermen, women and children, all getting ready for the first day of the season. The beautiful town of Cauterets nestles in the heart of the Haute Pyrenees, on the edge of the Pyrenean National Park (www.cauterets.com). Cauterets is a town of many guises: a spa town, a ski resort, a base for walking and mountain biking and an ex-

cellent base for fishing. The locals are extremely friendly, and were happy to speak about their area. ``We live in a beautiful area with many natural resources Ð the mountains, the healing thermal waters, the lakes and rivers. We have lots to offer our visitors at any time of year, and we wholeheartedly welcome the Irish,'' said Stephane Pellegrinelli from the Tourist Office.

CONSERVATION

Fishing is extremely well organised throughout France. Organisations, such as the Federation des Hautes Pyrenees

pour

Protection

Peche

Milieu

Aqua-

(www.fnpf.fr), play a crucial role in the conservation and stocking of the rivers and mountain lakes Inshore Ireland met with a group of local fishermen to find out about their area. Everyone must carry a valid fishing permit ( c a r t e d e peche), including photograph, with them at all times. These permits can be purchased in the local fishing shops. tique

Everyone must carry a fishing permit, which gives you access to 2,000km of trout rivers, 220 lakes and 500 hectares of rivers for coarse angling

The first day of the fishing season.

A garde de peÃche (supervisor) can ask to see your permit at any time if you are fishing. These permits give you access to 2,000km of trout rivers, 220 mountain lakes and 500 hectares of lakes and rivers for coarse angling. The prices vary for men, women, children, and students etc, and they also depend on the length of fishing time. A season card costs 64, and a vacation permit for 15 consecutive days costs 30. For full details and restrictions, go to www.fnpf.fr. The fishing season varies, whether it is in the trout rivers (14 March to 20 September), mountain lakes (13 May to 4 October) or coarse fishing in the lower rivers or the lakes (1 March to 31 December). No matter where you go, you will be surrounded by breathtaking scenery. There are quotas on the size and number of fish that can be taken per day, and all of this information is available on purchase of a permit.

STOCKING THE WATERS

With so much fishing going on in the region, I wondered how the waters were stocked. Just outside Cauterets, the federation has a `pisiculture' or fish farm that breeds fish to stock the lakes and rivers.

Approximately 14 million young salmon, rainbow and brown trout, char, a Canadian fish known as cristivomer, black bass, etc, are bred in the fish farm and released into the mountains and rivers each year. Re-stocking is a task requiring considerable organisation, volunteers Ð of which there is no shortage Ð and a few helicopters. Two kilos of the young fish are placed into clear plastic bags with water and oxygen, and transported by helicopter to the lakes and mountain rivers. Awaiting their arrival are numerous volunteers who take one or two bags each and walk to pre-designated sites where they release the fish. The whole process must occur within two hours of the fish being bagged to ensure they survive. All of this effort clearly pays off, as there is an abundance of quality fish available each season. The area is fantastic, the wine is cheap, the food is great and the people are more than friendly and have a great sense of humour. I couldn't recommend Cauterets highly enough!

* For further information contact the Tourist Office Cauterets at 0033 (0)5 62 92 50 50 or e-mail accueil@cau terets.com

No matter where you go, you will be surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

FRESHWATER FOCUS

The fish farm at Cauterets breeds young salmon, rainbow and brown trout, char, cristivomer,and black bass for restocking.

Volunteers loading the fish on the helicopter for restocking.

Murloc Angling

& Rural Pursuits

ANGLING AT ITS BEST 5 acre lake-fly only, Bait Pond - All methods. Open 9am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; dusk, boats available. Stocked with the Best quality Rainbow Trout up to 12lbs Catch & release or hook & cook on site! Excellent facilities Casting instruction with qualified coach Tackle Shop/Equipment Hire Disabled access facilities including Jetties/Toilets Hot food available week-ends or on request prior to visit. Corporate groups welcome. Top quality fish such as this example are bred at the fish farm.

Restocking volunteers waiting for the helicopter.

Old Church Lane, Aghalee, Co.Armagh BT67 0EY 00 44 (0)2892 651 421

www.murlocangling.com

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

FRESHWATER FOCUS

Ladies fly Diversification Ð the fishing mother of invention courses

BY WENDY SCOTT

ADIES Ð learn to fly fish with Glenda Powell, Ireland's top female fly casting instructor, and Mark Corps, game angling adviser with the Central Fisheries Board. Two days only, one-day fly fishing courses' in aid of Action Breast Cancer are being organised by the Eastern Regional Fisheries Board in the months of May and October 2009. * Saturday 16 May, Rathcon Trout Fishery, Grangecon, Co Wicklow. * Saturday 10 October, Annamoe Trout Fishery, Annamoe, Co Wicklow. Spaces are

limited to a maximum of 16 participants per day, so early booking is advisable. Contact Ashley Hayden on ashley.hayden@erfb.ie,or0872746127/01. 2787022. Registration takes place between 10.00 and 10.30am, and lunch will be provided by the fishery. The course will consist of casting theory, practice, and fly casting. All fishing gear will be provided, but please bring wet weather clothing, wellingtons, and sunglasses to protect your eyes when casting. There is no fee to pay for the course, instead participants are being asked to make a donation by cash or cheque to Action Breast Cancer, on arrival. See www.fishingireland.net for more details.

ow many of us consider changing our way of life, either because we want to or because of necessity? Diversification for some can be a scary word, but for others it can reap rewards. Murloc Angling and Rural Pursuits is a diversification project that took time and effort to come to fruition, but the results are testament to the fact that hard work pays off. Situated in the Armagh countryside within easy access of the M1 from the Moira roundabout, Murloc Angling and Rural Pursuits is a farm diversification project on land owned by James Murray and family, with Fred Lockhart providing the angling expertise for the partnership. Three years in the planning, this project is part funded by the Lough Neagh Development Partnership and the Lisburn Leader Project. Since opening on 1 July last year, hundreds of anglers have enjoyed their sport in peaceful surroundings while availing of excellent facilities. During the planning stage, the Murrays and Lockarts visited other angling facilities to find out what was already on offer, and to learn exactly what is required for a great day's angling. As a result, Murloc offers excellent facilities that include two lakes, one stocked with rainbow trout, the other a bait lake; safe secure parking; disabled access jetties and toilet facilities; tuition from Fred the qualified coach; equipment hire; tackle shop; BBQ and picnic area; three new 19ft boats and a log cabin serving hot food at the weekends. During a visit to the centre, Inshore Ireland watched a party of anglers from Dundalk from the comfort of a log fire overlooking the five acre

ABOVE: Dundalk Anglers for the Euro Tackle Winter League-Peter Noone, Hugh Clarke, Trevor Noone.

The Murloc log cabin

main lake. Peter Noone, event organiser from Euro Tackle in Dundalk explained why they had chosen to hold their competition at Murloc. He said: ``Fred is a gentleman; the fry is great; the facilities are second to none, but most of all, the attraction

is the quality of the fish Ð even the smaller 2lb to 3lb rainbows put up a great fight. We have six heats to this competition, and we found Murloc to be so good and such great value for money that we have held three of the six heats here.''

During the winter months, Murloc offers a range of classes from fly tying to flower arranging to cookery demonstrations, which, combined with angling, provide a multi choice experience for corporate or group events.

Readers' FREE competition WIN a free day's fishing for yourself and a friend, including catering and instruction, by answering the following questions: Question one: What marks the entrance to Murloc Angling and Rural Pursuits? Question two: What size is the main lake at Murloc? Question three: What is the name Win a free day's fishing for you and a friend by answering three simple questions

of the angling instructor/coach at Murloc? Answers by post to: Murloc angling & rural pursuits, Old Church Lane, Aghalee, Craigavon, Co Armagh. BT67 0EY. Or email to fredlockhart@btconnect.com Competition closes at 4pm on August 31, 2009. Winners will be posted on our web site: www.murlocangling.com in September. Good luck. We look forward to having a great day out with you. For further information go to www.murlocangling.com or contact Fred at Murloc Angling and Rural Pursuits on: 0044 (0)7843632197 or James on 0044 (0) 7703468571.

Murloc Angling and Rural Pursuits entrance.

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

FRESHWATER FOCUS

Fishing and family retreat at Ballyhass Lakes

BRENDAN CONNOLLY

t one time or another, most anglers

will

have to `negotiate' with their

nearest and dearest to go fishing. After all, not everyone enjoys fishing, so how can weekends and holidays be organised so that both anglers and non-anglers enjoy their precious

leisure

time

to-

gether? Ballyhass Lakes trout fishery, located between Mallow and Kanturk in Co Cork, has come up with a solution to suit both groups. Centered

two

c lear

spring-fed lakes, Ballyhass is better described as an `allround

tourist destination'

rather than merely a trout fishery. The 36-acre location boasts 11 self-catering holiday homes overlooking the lakes, and employs qualified instructors who organise and oversee a range of activities, from kayaking and raft building to abseiling, rock climbing,

archery

and

various

deposit their eggs.

CLOCKWISE, FROM ABOVE:

there is only one other case in Ireland where rainbow trout (which is not a native species) are known to have spawned, and that was in a lake on Arranmore

Island

off

the

team sports.

north Co Donegal coast.

TAILOR-MADE ACTIVITIES

CATCH AND RELEASE

in consultation with the in-

less than 3lb each. All brown

The activities are organised structors and are tailored to suit the preferences and capabilities of the individual. Summertime activity courses are also available for children of all ages at 195 per week. But don't let these activities give the impression that Ballyhass Lakes does not take its fishing seriously. The largest of the two lakes (12 acres, 8m to 11m deep clear spring water) is strictly fly-fishing only for brown trout and rainbow trout. The trout are stocked and hunt for natural food in the spring-fed waters. The flyfishing methods used are similar to reservoir fly-fishing familiar to British anglers. This involves long leaders and a very slow retrieve or, on occasions, letting the fly sink slowly without retrieving it at all. In Ireland, this method is most often employed when buzzer fishing during the duck-fly in early spring on the great lakes. An interesting aspect of Ballyhass Lakes is that the rainbow trout spawn naturally in the winter and early spring on the gravel shores. Anglers can watch big rainbows dashing about in the shallows, competing for females that in turn make reds in the gravel in which they

Anglers are allowed to keep two rainbow trout per day of trout and rainbows over 3lb (and some are as big as 15lb!) are returned. Anglers who are skilled in this style of fly fishing regularly catch and release up to 20 trout per day. The tackle shop in Ballyhass stocks a selection of fishing

gear,

including

the

appropriate flies. The seasonal cycle brings a

are skilled in fly fishing regularly catch and release up to 20 trout per day

New start for Irish Angler

sequence of fly life with it,

Irish Angler, the country's

be no doubt. We are confi-

and expert advice on current

foremost angling magazine,

dent we can develop the

fly patterns is available from

is under new ownership of

magazine from the strong

the tackle shop. Generally,

its editor, David Dinsmore.

position it enjoys as a mar-

leaders

Speaking after the official

are advised because of the

handover, Dinsmore said he

clarity of the water.

was

fluorocarbon

long

confident

the

ket leader in Ireland. ``It's been a steep learning

team

curve since we took the

could develop the magazine

decision to go ahead. We've

fished from the shore; how-

from the strong position it

had to get to grips with

ever, it is more easily fished

has enjoyed since its founda-

distribution, printing and

by boats, suitable for two or

tion five years ago by David

all the other aspects of run-

three anglers, which can be

Hall Publishing Ltd, Eur-

ning a successful magazine

rented. Fishing takes place all

ope's largest publisher of

publishing

year round and is exception-

angling magazines.

said.

The

large

lake

can

ally good in winter, when it is

``We've always felt that

business,''

David Hall (r), chairman of

Irish Angler was 100% Irish,

David Hall Publishing Ltd,

While fly fishing is highly

but now that it is owned by

hands over Irish Angler maga-

enjoyable, not everyone is

an Irish company there can

zine to editor David Dinsmore.

done deeper down.

able to cast a line without producing a tangle the size of a bird's nest every second cast. To this end, fly-fishing tuition is available at Ballyhass Lakes. Ballyhass Lakes also caters for other methods of fishing. Use of worms, spinners, bubble and flies is allowed on the smaller upper lake, which is fished from the many plat-

Relax & unwind at Castle Espie Wetland Centre

forms along its banks. This lake is also regularly

Anglers who

* Kayaking Ă? one of the many activities at Ballyhass Lakes. * Self-catering accommodation overlooking the lake. * Stuck in a trout.

This is highly unusual, as

stocked with brown and rainbow trout of between 2lb and 3lb. After the day's fishing, the angler can relax with the rest of the family who have been

Explore this haven for wildlife a place for sanctuary and peace Uncover millions of years of history Every week brings something new Each season tells its own story

busy with their own pursuits. Ballyhass Lakes truly offers experiences for all the family. Further

details

www.ballyhasslakes.ie

from:

78 Ballydrain Road Comber Co. Down (ROI 048) 028 9187 4146 wwt.org.uk/castleespie

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

SEA ANGLING

GETTING HOOKED at any age

JOHN RAFFERTY

ea angling is one of the top sports in Ireland, and one which all the family can participate in. Everyone from your granny to your grandchildren will enjoy catching fish, as well as providing the table with the freshest and tastiest fish. Far from being a complicated sport, sea angling for many species can be done with the minimum of tackle and with methods that will suit the beginner without having to spend a packet. There are several different types of sea angling to choose from, including beach, rock, estuary, pier or boat fishing, and by and large the same or slight variations in tactics and baits are used for each species from all these different venues.

BORROW TO BEGIN Don't be conned by fancy design packing that promises big catches. I know anglers who have spent thousands on rods, reels and tackle designed to catch the angler by its glamorous packaging and marketing, but in fact would scare any fish within miles of it. Try to borrow a rod and reel to begin with Ð that way if you don't like the sport you can give it back and walk away with your wallet still intact. Get advice from other anglers, or from the tackle shop owner on what type of traces and weights you will need. This will also save you a lot of your hard earned cash. Joining a sea angling club is also a good idea for the novice angler, even if it's only for a short time. Clubs usually hold competitions or league outings, and competing regularly will keep you up to date with the latest tackle, techniques and ideas, and enhance your basic skills. Also, try talking to experienced anglers; most of them will be prepared to part with some of their favourite tips. You can then apply and adapt these skills into your everyday fishing.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK Once you begin you will experience the element of unpredictability that leaves you uncertain about what has just taken the bait. When you've been sea angling a few times,

you'll know what I mean. My advice is to study and understand as much as you can about the habitat, movements and the basic likes and dislikes of your intended quarry. Fish are intelligent out of necessity, coming from an environment where one mistake can cost them their life, but on the other hand, food is at a premium and fish have to be highly aggressive to get their meal. So, if you, the angler, can present your bait in a manner the fish can associate with, then there's no reason why you won't catch your fair share. Making notes of dates, areas, traces, baits and techniques used while catching them, will also prove to be invaluable on later outings. I assure you, by following this advice your catches will increase in size and quantity, and will eventually turn you into a highly skilled and proficient angler.

OPEN ALL HOURS There is no closed season in sea fishing; rather it's the fish that dictates the season for the sea angler. Not all marine fish are residents in our waters throughout the year. Cod, for example, usually arrive in large numbers in October, and leave during February, although some do stay and can be caught throughout the year. Turbot move to deeper waters during winter months, whereas whiting move inshore and go to deeper waters around March and April. Mackerel usually arrive around our coast during May and stay until September or October. There are many species within the anglers grasp all year round, however, different techniques, traces and baits need to be adopted to attract and catch the individual species. Spinning for pollack with a lead head and a jelly worm is a method that is perfect for the beginner, and is the most suitable way to show children and novices how to catch hard fighting, sporty fish. There is very little to get tangled up when using this method and, if fishing from a boat, the novice doesn't even have to be able to spin Ð they can just drop the lead head over the side and let the drift of the boat carry them away from it before they begin their retrieve. Spinning is one of the most exciting ways of catching pol-

We must be seen to be taking action to protect the resource by practising catch and release on

what we catch

lack, coalfish or, if you are lucky enough, cod. All that's required is a lead head and a jelly worm. The lead head is around an ounce to an ounce and a half in weight, and is just a hook with lead moulded on to it in such a way that it sits upright in the water. The reason for this is to keep the hook from snagging on the bottom and for giving the hook a better hookup in the fish's mouth.

COLOUR MAGIC The jelly worm can be just about any colour or shape that you want to try. A fire tail worm is always one to be tried first, although every angler has his or her own favourites. Once you have selected what you want to try, attach the lead head directly to the mainline on your spinning rod. All lead heads have different shapes to give them a certain movement in the water, so you do not use a swivel, as this would diminish the lead head's movement in the water.

VITAL PREPARATION Before you cast, always check that the drag is set correctly on your spinning reel to give the lead head time to sink to the bottom. Once it's on the bottom, you can start your retrieve. The speed of retrieval is by trial and error, but once you feel a bite you do not stop Ð keep retrieving at the same speed. The pollack will usually chase the jelly worm until it catches it, occasionally you can even see them on the surface before

they take it. When you feel the weight of the fish, strike and set the hook, then the fight begins. There is great sport in fishing pollack this way. Sometimes by adding bait instead of, or along with, the jelly worm to the lead head can add to it's effectiveness in catching the fish. Always check the line on your trace just above the hook of the lead head for bite marks. The pollack sometimes takes the bait straight down into its stomach, which leaves your line in the way of its small but sharp teeth. If it feels even slightly worn, then cut off the hook or lead head and a couple of inches of line, and re-tie again. Care should also be taken when removing a hook that is well inside the fish's mouth; even the smallest cut can be very painful. Sea angling is growing in popularity. A day at sea will fill you with excitement, a sense of adventure and spectacular views of our coastline that you never believed existed. Remember, however, that as an angler you are one of many dedicated to protecting the marine environment, and all it contains. Some species of fish are in danger of extinction Ð cod, ling, sharks, blue fin, tuna, to name a few. As anglers, we must be seen to be taking action to protect the resource by practising catch and release on most of what we catch. If you have any queries, contact John on jrafferty@eircom.net or see his publication, `Sea Angling in Ireland.'

ABOVE: Kayleigh Gallager and Emma Raftery enjoying a bit of sea angling in mid-October TOP RIGHT: Emma Raftery with her catch of the day. RIGHT: Aidan Rodgers with his best pollack of the day. FAR RIGHT: Marty McCarthy with his winning fish on a sea angling trip around Owen Island on board the Caitlin Marie. PICTURES: John Rafferty

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

SEA ANGLING

Poor council engagement in Water Framework Directive roadmap

GERY FLYNN FEATURES EDITOR

ublic involvement in making changes to the Draft River Basin Management Plans, published last December, has been low so far Ð and there are no signs of it increasing significantly by the 22 June deadline for submissions, according to a leading campaigner on environmental water issues. Sinead O'Brien of the Sustainable Water Network (SWAN), the umbrella body for thirty of Ireland's environmental groups, told a workshop on the water framework directive that despite being more than halfway to the June deadline, there had been little public involvement with the plans. ``There has been no real public participation in the Water Framework Directive in general up to now, so it's going to be even more challenging to engage them in the draft plans because of the very low level of awareness about water issues in Ireland anyway,'' O'Brien said. The fact that Ireland also lacks a culture of facilitating active public involvement in plans like this ``means that these challenges will be even greater,'' she warned.

OBLIGATION TO ACT

``We must remember that public engagement with the draft plans should not be seen as a voluntary exercise; member states are, in fact, obliged to encourage it. ``Therefore, SWAN supports the EU Commission's guidance document on this issue, which clearly states that the public must be allowed to influence the outcome of plans and working processes,'' she said. It would be `very easy' for the authorities here to simply accept submissions from members of the public, but it's going to be much more challenging to allow them `to actually influence the outcome or the plan Ð and the key word is influence'. O'Brien pointed out the fact that in Ireland, the Advisory Councils attached to each River Basin District were the only fora that facilitated active public involvement in river basin planning. She said SWAN members who were also on the councils are critical of the way many were being run. ``They have told me that the formal structure in place is not very conducive to collaboration, decision-making and problem-solving,'' she warned. ``Council meetings are sticking to a very rigid struc-

It would be `very easy' for the authorities here to simply accept submissions from members of the public, but it's going to be much more challenging to allow them `to actually influence the outcome or the plan

ture. They seem to involve a lot of complex presentations from consultants, and there doesn't appear to be an awful lot of dialogue. It seems that there has been very little actual engagement in the plans so far, and there's obviously huge room for improvement.''

COMMITMENT

O'Brien is also critical of the fact that councils are largely comprised of elected county councillors Ð many of whom, she said, ``hadn't read the draft plans and are not familiar yet with their contents. Not only has there been a very low attendance at meetings, the level of commitment to date is very poor. There has been a lot of coming and going during the actual meetings, and no real sign that

council members are well prepared. I understand that to be a fairly consistent picture throughout all of the advisory councils Ð some more than others,'' she said. O'Brien also contends that because the advisory councils are linked to the duration of the County Council, they will be dissolved in June, and in the run-up to the local elections, they will be ``just another distraction''. ``In effect, this also means that anything the authorities want to do with the advisory councils in terms of dialogue or getting them on board will have to be done in the April meeting. ``Therefore, we are really under a lot of pressure in terms of contacting those bodies and encouraging them to participate,'' she said.

Conference to debate ways of using waste to generate energy

THE 25th annual environmental conference, organised by the Sherkin Island Marine Station, takes place on 7 to 8 May at the Carrigaline Court Hotel, Carrigaline, Co Cork. The theme for this jubilee conference is `Energy from Waste'; previous topics have included landfill, sewage disposal and plan-

ning laws. According to director Matt Murphy, Ireland must address its reliance on fossil fuels, and at the same time find creative ways to deal with a growing waste problem. Speakers from the USA, Europe and Britain will deliver presentations and debate new perspectives on using waste to generate energy.

P.J. Foy, Bar, Restaurant and B&B 55 JKL St., Edenderry, 046-9731027

Hogan’s Guesthouse Carrick Rd., Edenderry, 046-9732021

Rita Tyrrell, Fisherman’s Rest B&B

Congratulations to Edenderry Coarse Angling Club on their 20th Anniversary

7 Fr Kearns St., Edenderry, 046-9731297

Catherine Byrne, Auburn Lodge 6 Colonel Perry St., Edenderry 046-9731319

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

INTERVIEW

Efficiency is essential Says man at the helm of the capital's port

Q&A

In an interview with Inshore Ireland, Enda Connellan, chief executive of Dublin Port Company discusses the impact the economic downturn is having on the port

BY JOHN HEARNE

I don't expect it to get much

are taking advantage of the

worse. I think it will even off,

downturn in construction.

part from his

because we're still comparing

We're currently extending a

with the good part of last

berth for one of our custo-

sea, Enda Con-

year. From June, we'll be

mers and we're extending

nellan

has

comparing with the second

some hard-standing for an-

worked in Du-

half of last year, which was

other customer. The prices

blin Port all his life, starting

considerably slower. As a

we can demand to do this

out as assistant harbourmas-

result, I'd expect that down-

are a good deal lower than

ter before advancing to be-

side to taper off. And in any

they were before.

come harbourmaster in 1991.

case, that 30 million tonnes is

He was appointed chief execu-

five

tive of the then Dublin Port

handling 12 years ago. All in

and Docks Board in 1994,

all, Dublin port handles half

three years before the Gov-

the nation's trade. Two-thirds

ernment established Dublin

of the containers that come in

You also have other projects in train. What's the status of the plan to extend deepwater berths by infilling 21 hectares of the bay?

Port Company as a corporate

and out pass through here.

years

entity. He has a BA in economics and politics from UCD and a diploma in Arbitration and an MBA, also from UCD.

times

what

were

Is the collapse in trade all about consumer confidence?

It's before An Bord Pleana Â la. That's a well-known plan that we've had for many years. We require deeper berths for the many larger and deeper ships

ven at a time of unsustain-

because the value of goods

a ble

prope rty

that travel through Dublin

prices, which we all know

port each year is somewhere

how are you maintaining competitiveness and keeping a lid on costs?

about. The focus was on the

in the region of 35bn. Two

We're always looking to our

speculative value of the site

years ago, people were very

cost base. We have a cost

rather than on the business,

bullish about property prices.

r e d u c ti o n

which is done here. That's

They were never going to

place at the moment where

surprising in many ways be-

come down. I think we have

we're looking to save costs

cause Ireland is one of the

all learned a bit of a lesson.

wherever we can. Over the

most open trading economies

So it's an ill wind?

last seven or eight years,

gr owth

Absolutely, consumer confi-

that are coming into ports

dence is very low. Exports to

and we expect will come to

the

down.

Ireland. Ships are getting big-

There's still a lot of trade

ger, deeper and longer, so we

within Europe, but the Far

need to facilitate them.

East box trade is way down.

far Ð so the downturn has got

How are you reacting to that?

Is the prospect of a move to Bremore now dead in the water?

worse.

We're

facilitators.

There was some speculation

for us to trade efficiently, we

Do you expect further deterioration over the rest of the year?

Transport is a derived de-

that we would be moving to

must have efficient and effec-

mand so we don't actually

another location and this

tive ports, so I was surprised

create any demand, but we

speculation was largely dri-

by that kind of speculation

JH: How has the port been affected by the downturn? EC: We do about 30 million tonnes

here.

We're

down

about 4% last year, and we're down about 12% this year so

Far

East

trade

are

in the world. We're hugely dependent on trade for GDP growth Ð in fact, the only countries that are more dependent are the Benelux countries. In order

Well, I never saw the sense to the suggestion and I certainly

You have an extensive corporatesocialresponsibility (CSR) programme at Dublin Port. In straitened times, initiatives like these can come under pressure. Do you have any plans to roll back on CSR?

ing

A combination of new tech-

ject. The idea became known

nology and new processes,

as the valuation distraction.

and not replacing people as

You also have a 16m investment programme underway. Has that been damaged by the downturn?

was done in the past because

ity. We're part of the community and the community is part of the port. We support a broad range of projects, including social inclusion

You're right, there is a ten-

education initiatives and a

dency for CSR to come under

drug recovery programme.

attack in times of downturn

We also have a scholarship

but I don't see it that way.

scheme.

Business needs the commu-

scheme, we've helped more

nity just as much as the

than 340 people to pursue

community needs business.

third level education. Our

We're dependent on one an-

commitment

other, so we've a long-stand-

there.

Thanks

will

that

stand

we're now making better use of technology. Once upon a time, we had tugs that had a crew of five or six. The new tugs will have a crew of two.

mers have invested a similar

Talk me through that transformation. How has the port changed since 1997?

amount in ships and cranes

Have you got all day? Up to

and other handling equip-

2002, we were busy making

ment. However, in terms of

sure

our current investment pro-

within the port. Today, we

gramme, we bought a work

have nine service providers

boat called Rosbeg. It's a

who compete with one an-

multi-cat, capable of doing

other for trade within the

all sorts of work around the

port. This is innovative in

port Ð from cleaning the

the ports in these islands. In

river to maintenance on the

Britain, most ports are either

quay wall, to bed levelling.

privately owned or are trust

We're also investing in two

ports. In both of these situa-

new tugs, which are cur-

tions, services are largely

rently being built in Spain

provided by the port operat-

and we've purchased two pi-

ing company rather than by

lot boats, which were built in

competing entities.

we've

invested

over

250m in the port. Our custo-

corporate social responsibil-

off our labour costs.

How have you done that?

1997,

we've shaved almost 12m

our shareholder on the sub-

private limited company in

commitment

never had a discussion with

Since we were formed into a

CSR programme

pr o g ra mm e

Cork.

With those spending plans,

had

competition

Once competing entities became heavily involved in the port, we got to work on

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

INTERVIEW

Effect of Exchequer cutbacks As an essential element of the country's transport infrastructure, and dependent as you are on the road and rail network, do you have any concerns that developments in that area will be hampered by exchequer cutbacks? Enda Connellan was appointed chief executive of the then Dublin Port and Docks Board in 1994, three years before the Government established Dublin Port Company as a corporate entity.

Pictures: David Ruffles cost reduction. We had a lot of work practice changes to implement, a lot of process changes too. We also outsourced some activities that we thought other people could do better and more efficiently than we could. We concentrated on the core business here, which is providing facilities for our customers to trade into and out of this magnificent country.

No, not at the moment. If you look at our annual accounts, you'll see that the company is in a healthy state. We don't ask the State for money, we secure commercial borrowings like any other private company and if we don't do well out of it, we will suffer as a result. We expect to pay the State a dividend this year of 5.3m. For a company with a turnover of 74m, that's not bad.

You're also pursuing business opportunities abroad? Where does Dublin Port fit Yes, we're looking at export- into the international shiping our expertise. We're col- ping scene? laborating with UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) at the moment and with SKEMA (Sustainable Knowledge Platform for the European Maritime and Logistics Industry) and we're also looking at the possibility of managing ports in both India and Indonesia.

Is State ownership an impediment to pursuing opportunities like these?

No. Don't forget you've had CIE an d ESB operating abroad and doing pretty well. Dublin Port Company has a business model that operates quite efficiently, and a lot of people from abroad have shown a lot of interest in it.

Dublin Port is a feeder relay port, so containers going from here to China or from here to North America will go via another large port. About 50% of them go to Rotterdam and the other 50% will go to places like Liverpool, Southampton, Felixstowe, Le Harve. We have others then that will go directly to Spain, Israel and into Italy. Worldwide, there's been a drop of about 25% in Far East trade. It's affecting us all, both on the exports and imports side Ă? and it's exacerbated by the banking crisis where credit is harder to get.

charges for passengers and cars low. A passenger coming into Dublin Port with a car will pay less than 2, and we've held these prices for the past decade. But it will impact us because our biggest trading partner is Britain, and Sterling moving in the wrong direction won't help us either.

Has there been any reduction in ferry services so far?

One of our customers has dropped one sailing to Britain. However, that brings it down to 17 sailings per day at peak time, and that has been offset to some extent by the fact that one customer has introduced one larger ship.

What about cruising?

We had 83 cruise liners last year and we expect the same number again this year. The sector is quite bullish about what's going to happen. Their intention is to offer prices that haven't been seen before. As it stands, this market has low penetration, and of course it's a wonderful market for Dublin, because it's worth between 35m and 50m It's an awful lot of money for the local economy.

It's anticipated that tourist Your last word? numbers could fall by as I think it's very important to much as half a million this say that Dublin Port supports How will the port 4,000 real jobs. This port will Giventheshortageofliquid- year. that storm? ity in the marketplace, have weather continue to be a dynamic That will negatively impact youhadanydifficultyfinan- us and our customers. We've force, feeding the Irish econcing any of these plans? omy and feeding commerce always tried to keep port

In years gone by, we've had to play catch-up in terms of our infrastructure. It's important that we continue to invest so we don't end up playing catch-up again when the recovery comes,

because the recovery will come, so we must be determined to carry though the National Development Plan (NDP). We must build worldclass roads. In the last decade, we've become three times more dependent on HGVs to move goods on the island, and we're also committed to rail. If you look at a map of Ireland, the railway lines all run towards Dublin, making us the only truly rail connected port in

as it has done for centuries. It's perfectly located at the main market and we've tremendous access to the port now with the tunnel. Ports are trade facilitators Ă? they're not creators of demand. Their job is to anticipate demand and make sure they facilitate it and in fairness to the ports, they've done that. We help to get the goods to the market in a very cost effective, efficient and green manner. Our hidden role, I think, is often taken for granted, but at the end of the day, efficient delivery of goods to the market keeps prices down and keeps the wheels of commerce turning. We have a cost reduction programme in place which enables us to save costs wherever we can. Over the last seven or eight years, we've shaved almost 12m off our labour costs

Dublin Port supports 4,000 jobs.

the country. We've about 4km of rail within the port itself, and we're handling nearly half a million tonnes annually by rail into the port, despite the fact that there has been a downturn in the usage of rail throughout the country. But, of course, I have every sympathy for the Government trying to get its act together on the expenditure side, and indeed on the tax side, we know that things have to be done about it.

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

tropsnaecO ,naginarB divaD/IM

:serutciP

AQUACULTURE NEWS

The ability to identify and deal with potential emerging disease threats, such as Francisella in farmed cod, is of increasing importance.

AquaPlan Ð improving the health of Irish farmed fish

BY NEIL RUANE MARINE INSTITUTE

Arctic char is one species farmed in Ireland, along with Atlantic salmon, and rainbow trout.

TRAINING

sential to the suc-

Fish health training is re-

c e s s

a n d

quired in Ireland at all levels

viability of fin-

in the aquaculture sector,

fish

farming.

particularly as it evolves with

Finfish production in Ireland

different production systems,

declined from a peak of 25,082

species and farms. BIM's suc-

tonnes in 2001 to 12,726 tonnes

cessful FETAC-approved fish

CONTINGENCY PLANS

welfare course is currently

Aquaplan will build on cur-

training available in Ireland.

sues have played a significant

rent

initia-

We need to develop struc-

role in the decline.

tives in fish health. A fish

tures and schemes Ð not only

health handbook will be de-

to train farm staff, but also

AQUA NOR International Exhibition

kets and product prices, the

veloped

biologists, fish health profes-

sector has shown great resi-

dated

lience

producer with information

18 - 21 August 2009 Trondheim Nor way

organic salmon farming and

The project will also pro-

modules at a number of le-

improved post-harvest pro-

duce information leaflets on a

vels, such as basic diagnostic

cessing techniques, and offers

broad range of topics, includ-

training, biosecurity and hy-

great potential for employ-

ing biosecurity, disinfection

giene for fish farm personnel,

ment,

and leaflets on specific dis-

and more in-depth and de-

eases.

tailed modules for more ex-

number of underlying reasons for this, fish health is-

30 YEARS

researchers.

ish health is es-

in 2006. While there are a

1979 - 2009

lators to State agencies and

for aquaculture industry

2009

Aided by improved mar-

recent

years

through the development of

despite

the

current

economic climate.

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.

industry/State

and to

regularly

provide

up-

each

on the latest developments.

the only formal fish health

sionals and veterinarians. AquaPlan will develop a range of accredited training

perienced personnel and fish

Atlantic salmon and, to a

Contingency plans will be

lesser extent, rainbow trout

developed for new and emer-

are the main species farmed

ging diseases not included in

in Ireland, with some produc-

the

Directive

duce a National Strategy for

tion of Arctic char, Atlantic

2006/88/EC; these documents

Fish Health in Ireland. This

cod, turbot and perch.

will be central to the develop-

will be supported by research

The ability to identify and

ment of a strategic health

papers on the impact of fish

deal with pancreas disease

management plan for Irish

disease, seminars and man-

and gill pathologies and po-

finfish aquaculture.

uals outlining Ireland's ap-

Fish

Health

health professionals. Finally, AquaPlan will pro-

disease

The first annual fish health

proach to national disease

threats, such as sleeping dis-

seminar will take place at the

preparedness, as part of the

ease in rainbow trout, Fran-

Marine Institute, Oranmore

fish health handbook.

cisella

on 11 June. It will include

t en t i al

em e r g i n g

cod

and

Taking account of EU and

rhabdovirus in perch, is of

international

pre-

national legislation, the man-

increasing importance. The

senting on the effects of dis-

uals will outline the control

industry's ability to respond

eases

national

strategies to be activated in a

to health issues is dependent

industry, and how their re-

national fish disease emer-

upon the level of expertise

spective

gency.

as exhibitor, visitor or as conference participant.

available within the sector.

tors

more at: www.nor-ﬁshing.no

`AquaPlan: Health Manage-

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

Welcome to Aqua Nor 2009,

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

A research project called ment for Finfish Aquacul-

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

experts

their

industries/regulathe

These strategies will be

situations. This year's pre-

implemented by competent

sentations will include:

staff through accredited fish

have

managed

The restructuring of the

ture', aims to increase the

Faroe Islands industry due to

available expertise by provid-

ISA.

health training. This project is carried out under the Sea Change strat-

ing practical information Ð a

* Management strategies and

fish health handbook and in-

regulation of pancreas disease

Marine Institute and the Mar-

formation leaflets, accredited

in Norway.

ine Research Sub-programme

training courses and an an-

nual Fish Health Seminar.

outbreak in Britain.

The management of a VHS

The Marine Institute-led pro-

Speakers will also present

ject is funded under the Sea

on issues of national impor-

Change strategy and involves

tance in Ireland. The seminar

Vet-Aqua International, BIM

is open to anyone with an

and the International Food

interest in fish health issues,

Quality Certification.

from the industry and regu-

egy with the support of the

of the National Development Plan 2007-2013, co-financed under the European Regional Development Fund.

* Further information from:

www.marine.ie/fishhealth or phone 091 387200

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

AQUACULTURE NEWS

Irish farmed seafood: the eco friendly choice

BY GRAINNE O'BRIEN BIM rom ``The power of one!'' to ``GlobalCool'' and ``What's your number?'', we are all familiar with the slogans and advertising campaigns urging us to calculate our carbon footprint, i.e. the amount of greenhouse gases (GHG) we emit into the atmosphere on an annual basis. Our carbon footprint is calculated in equivalents to carbon dioxide or kg CO2e/ kg. We already know that to reduce our footprint we should turn off lights, reduce air travel, choose public transport and ensure our home is properly insulated. But can we make a difference with the food we choose to eat? Recent studies suggest we can, and seafood appears to offer the most carbon efficient means to do so. Did you know that what we eat accounts for up to twice as many GHG emissions as driving?1 Indeed, 30% of all GHG emissions come from the production of food and drink. Interestingly, roughly half of the GHG emissions from our food come from meat production, even though meat, on average, accounts for only 14% or about one-sixth of our diet.2

GREENER CHOICES

So how can we make greener choices when it comes to the food we eat? First of all, we need to consider the lifecycle of different foods. For livestock, this requires a complex assessment of the carbon emissions associated with rearing, feeding, slaughter, processing, transport and retail of the products, as well as the treatment of the waste produced at each stage. Although the science of such carbon footprint assessment is still young, the calculations provide a good basis for comparing carbon footprints associated with different foodstuffs and protein sources, and the differences are startling.

Irish farmed seafood is more carbon efficient than other protein sources.

As you would imagine, vegetables have the lowest carbon footprint. Boiled potatoes, for example, have a carbon footprint of 0.28kg CO2e/kg. But what if you want more than a plate of spuds? This is where seafood offers a viable eco-friendly alternative to other protein sources. Take beef, for example. It is by far the highest emitter of GHG, with carbon footprint estimates of between 19kg and 36.4kg CO2e/kg served. That's more GHG emissions than going for a threehour drive while leaving on all the lights at home. For pork, the figure is lower, at about 4.25kg CO2e/kg.3

STAR PERFORMER

Irish farmed salmon, on the other hand, comes in at a tidy estimate, ranging from 1.75kg to 3.3kg CO2e/kg4, and Irish farmed mussels are a real star performer, with a carbon footprint of just 0.033kg CO2e/ kg.5 This is a very low reading, and while studies in this area are still young, it would ap-

Further information For more about BIM's Environmental Management initiatives, please visit www.bim.ie. 1

New

Scientist Issue

2673,

July

'07,

`beefs

`Meat

Production

emissions'',

Ian

Sample, Science Correspondent. 4

Peter Tyedmers, Dalhousie

University,

Nova

Scotia

`What is your dinner doing to

Astrid

the Climate?' September '08

Portland, quoted in Science

Science News, `The carbon

footprints

raising

live-

termine how big Ð or small Ð the

'09.

that

Ulf Sonesson, Swedish In-

stitute for Food and Biotechnology,

quoted

Science

Ecotrust,

News `Many intangibles de-

stock for food', 15 February

Scholz,

carbon fish

footprint

you're

thinking

about testing.' 15 February '09. 5

Carbon-Footprinting Audit

News `The Carbon Footprints

of Kush Shellfish, Ardgroom,

of raising livestock for food',

15 February '09. Guardian 19

Ltd, 2008.

Cork,

Carbon

Tracking

pear to demonstrate that Irish farmed shellfish are the most carbon efficient seafood available. So how come Irish farmed seafood has a better carbon footprint than meat? There are a number of reasons: * Fish feed is the main contributor of carbon emissions from aquaculture production, but even taking this into account, the carbon footprint of farmed salmon ranges between 1.75kg to 3.3kg CO2e/kg. This is because of the low Feed Conversion Rate (FCR) of farmed fish compared with terrestrial livestock; these animals are very efficient at converting industrial fish into the kind of fish we humans like to eat. This FCR can be as low as 1:1 for salmon, but averages 1.68. The most recent findings by the International Fishmeal and Fish Oil Organisation (IFFO) estimates that for global feed-based aquaculture in its entirety, the FCR could be as low as 0.52:1. * Compared with other livestock, farmed fish generate small amounts of waste while being reared and during processing. For many livestock animals, the greater part of the carcase is a by-product rather than a foodstuff, requiring huge energy input for rendering. By-products from farm fish in Ireland are often composted via an eco-friendly process, with a zero energy input. * One more factor that gives seafood a better carbon footprint relates to the high fecundity of fish. They produce thousands of offspring in a single reproductive cycle, compared with a cow producing a single calf per year or a pig producing approximately eight piglets per litter.

`GREEN' MUSSELS

As much of the carbon footprint from farmed salmon

relates to feed, it is worth thinking about farmed seafood products which don't require feeding at all and are produced close to shore, requiring only short travel distances to get to the farms. Ireland's star low-carbon food product, the Irish farmed mussel, is an excellent example of this. A recent study carried out on a mussel farm in West Cork calculated a carbon footprint of 0.033kg CO2e/kg serving of mussels. This is tiny compared with any land farmed animals, and it means delicious Irish farmed mussels are among the very lowest carbon footprint foods you can buy. Another key issue to consider when calculating the carbon footprint of aquaculture products relates to where they are produced. Although food miles make less of a contribution to the carbon footprint of food than previously thought, it still makes `eco' common sense to buy local. Much of the lower-cost salmon and mussels available on the market originate from Chile. Before you choose to buy these products, it is worth considering the `food miles' racked up in transporting them halfway round the world. These `food miles' contribute to the GHG emissions Ð not only in terms of the fuel used in transportation, but also from the energy required for refrigeration and freezing during transit. Needless to say, hauling food around the world that we can produce at home carries with it a high cost to our climate. This is a cost that can be reduced if we choose to buy Irish. What's more, the Irish aquaculture industry has

PICTURE: G Mills

shown a proactive approach to environmental management by adopting schemes such as BIM's ECOPACT initiative, or the independently accredited Irish Quality EcoStandards, marketed under t he QS P - E CO a s s ur a nce mark. These actions help to ensure that due consideration is given to the environment in every aspect of the fish farms

operations, from waste management to fuel efficiency. By taking this approach, the already low GHG emissions from Irish fish farming are even further reduced. So, if want to reduce your carbon footprint through the food you eat, ask your fishmonger for eco-guilt free top quality Irish farmed fish or shellfish.

MCM Insurance

MCM Insurance Brokers Limited Specialist broker to the Irish fishing sector.

Specialist shell/fin fish farms insurance, including; Public Products & Employers Liability, Stock Insurance, Plant, Factory, Vessel insurance, workboats. Contact our experts: Ballina office on - 09672977 Derry office on - 048 71279338 MCM Insurance Brokers Ltd., are regulated by the Financial Regulator

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

AQUACULTURE NEWS

Government must solve `bureaucratic nightmare' caused by NATURA 2000 IN the run-up to local and EU

and exports from coastal com-

top of the priority list, given

ence

IFA

front. They must keep the

strategy to maintain and in-

elections, IFA Aquaculture

munities.

the huge potential for jobs

president

Walshe

national interest at the top

crease jobs in the seafood

Kenmare, Â draig Pa

has warned that the industry

IFA Aquaculture has called

and exports from aquacul-

put a stark message to Gov-

of the agenda. They must

sector, ``the NATURA 2000

will be looking for a clear

on the Irish Government to

ture, the value for money

ernment:

allow our members to get on

problem must be addressed

commitment from Govern-

work together across all De-

and significant returns avail-

``Where there is a clear

with their business. Most im-

in a single-minded and united

ment and opposition candi-

partments and divisions to

able from the sector for pub-

opportunity to create jobs,

portantly of all, they must

way by all Departments and

dates

the

ensure a speedy resolution

lic investment and the fact

Ministers and officials cannot

know that they are being

agencies

serious backlog in licensing

to the ongoing NATURA 2000

that this is a problem caused

afford the luxury of buck-

closely watched by thousands

smooth operation of the licen-

in the sector and other pro-

crisis. ``The impasse which is

by inaction by the Irish State

passing any more. In Govern-

sing system; the opening of

blems caused by the Irish

hurting the aquaculture in-

itself,'' said Richie Flynn, IFA

ment, Ministers Smith, Kill-

aquaculture from Cromane,

the European Fisheries Fund

State's failure to implement

dustry

aquaculture executive secre-

een and Gormley must sort

to Connemara and Dungar-

round of structural aid as

the NATURA 2000 legislation

caused by inaction at Irish

tary.

out whatever issues have to

van to Donegal.''

recommended

in SACs and SPAs around the

Government level. There is

Speaking at the IFA na-

coast, which is costing jobs

no excuse not to put this issue

tional aquaculture confer-

deal

with

all

fronts

was

be agreed with the European C ommiss ion

EU Commission addresses issues raised by IFA in new aquaculture strategy IFA Aquaculture was instrumental

listening very carefully to what the

in persuading EU Fisheries Com-

industry had to say at the many

missioner, Joe Borg, to produce an

meetings we have held to discuss

updated EU-wide strategy for aqua-

the strategy and also to the conclu-

culture, and in 2006 succeeded in

sions of the conference held in

getting his agreement to refresh the

Brussels in 2007 which involved

EU's policy which was first pub-

the Marine Institute, BIM and the

lished in 2001.

then Department of Marine''

In 2009 following extensive consultation, Commissioner Borg pub-

Building a Future for Sustainable Aquaculture lished the document

in a Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and Council. In the document, the Commissioner addresses many of the issues raised by IFA and its European Federations for finfish and shellfish. IFA executive secretary, Richie Flynn, who made the first call to Commissioner Borg to carry out this work at the FEAP AGM in Greece in 2005 told

Inshore Ireland:

``The document must not only be widely welcomed by all concerned with developing the sector but, in particular, the Irish Government must immediately take note of the very strong message sent out loud and clear by the EU to develop the

SECTOR RECOGNITION

In the EU document, the Commissioner recognises the importance of

`The EU-27 aquaculture industry produced about 1.3 million tonnes of fish, shellfish and crustaceans in 2006, representing a turnover of around 3bn and generating approximately 65,000 jobs. Current EU consumption demand accounts for about 12 million tonnes.' He continued: `Against the background of fast-changing technologies and persisting economic and environmental challenges, it is timely to take stock of the strength and weaknesses of the EU aquaculture sector. This communication aims to identify and address the causes of this stagnation, with a view to ensuring that the EU remains a key player in this strategic sector.' the sector:

industry; cut out red tape; improve

According to Flynn: ``The Com-

licensing and facilitate a competi-

missioner very succinctly and accu-

tive and sustainable sector.''

rately assesses the strengths and

Mr Flynn continued:

weaknesses of the sector in a way

``I am glad to see that Commis-

which will sound familiar to any

sioner Borg and his officials were

Irish producer of salmon, mussels,

trout oysters, etc, as follows:''

`It benefits from a dynamic and cutting-edge research and technology sector, advanced equipment and fish feed, qualified and trained entrepreneurs and innovative enterprises, as well as from a solid environment and health protection legal framework. Yet the challenges for the EU aquaculture sector are numerous: e.g. limited access to space and licensing; industry fragmentation; limited access to seed capital or loans for innovation in a risky context (particularly with constant changes in the economic situation and in trade patterns); pressure from imports; insufficiency of medicines and vaccines. In addition, stringent EU rules, particularly on environmental protection, generate competitive constraints visaÁ-vis competitors in Asia or Latin America.'

Richie Flynn, IFA aquaculture executive secretary.

united

families

dependent

Flynn concluded that as part of a clear and coherent

allow

for

the

Cawl ey

and the opening of vital mussel seed areas on the coast.''

Key issues for the sector addressed by the Commissioner:

* Improving industrial competitive-

about aquaculture production and ness. products. * Examineopeningupoffundingfor * Insisting that Member States R&D, marketing, industry organi- should facilitate business developsation, disaster aid and publicity. ment by cutting red tape. * Simplifying regulation and licen- * Improving monitoring and statissing and in particular by Member tical information available to the States. industry on production, markets * Establishing `equal rights' for and international developments. aquaculture producers in the coastal zone and possibly linking EU * Ensuring the high standards of supports to the willingness of Mem- fish health in the EU are mainber States to ensure adequate space tained. * Re-examining the biotoxin regime for the sector. * Improving the compatibility of EU forshellfish``toaddressfoodrisksin environmental legislation with the the most appropriate way''. development of the sector. * Looking at adapting regulations * Ensuring member state govern- on particular issues for the sector ments meet the Commission's high which are different for the wild expectations for development and capture industry in marketing, lasupport for aquaculture. * Ensuring regulation and monitor- belling, consumer information, proing systems are in place so that fish ducer organisations. ``IFA Aquaculture supports all and shellfish imports into Europe of these measures as part of its own meet the same health, environment and welfare standards expected of policies for both shellfish and finEU producers. fish. * Recognising the requirement for a ``The Association now wants to clean, high quality environment to see what the Irish Government produce fish and shellfish and en- plan is to implement these policies suring that standards for growing in the context of the Cawley plan shellfish, in particular, are maintained under the Water Framework and the continued frustration felt by the sector over licensing, red Directive * Improving the profile of the sector tape and NDP funding,'' Flynn and accurate public information concluded.

Fish Health Seminar Members of the industry, researchers and state agencies are invited to the 1st annual Fish Health Seminar at the Marine Institute Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway on Thursday 11th June 2009. Leading international and national experts will present on best management practices and lessons learned from disease outbreaks. For more information or to register please contact Dr. Neil Ruane, Marine Institute by phone 091 387200 or email Neil.Ruane@marine.ie or visit www.marine.ie. This seminar is supported by Skretting , Intervet Schering-Plough and the Sea Change strategy with the support of the Marine Institute and the Marine Research Sub-Programme of the National Development Plan 2007-2013, co-financed under the European Regional Development Fund.

IFA tribute to aquaculture leader

THE IFA president, Padraig Walshe expressed the ``shock, deep sadness and loss'' felt by the fish farming community on learning of the sudden Â Ceallapassing of Damien O cha Â in, chairman of the Irish Salmon Growers Association. The IFA president extends his sympathies to Damien's wife, Joan and his children Michael, Muireann, Cliodhna and EveAnne. Â Ceallacha Damien O Â in was one of the pioneering figures in Irish aquaculture. A Cork man who began mussel farming in the 1970s in Connemara, Damien subsequently generated a boom in employ-

ment and exports from the region through farming salmon in Cill Chiara Â in and Bertrach BuõÂ. IFA Aquaculture executive secretary Richie Flynn said: ``Damien

showed

huge

commitment to community development and the Irish language. He was to the forefront in innovation and technology.

Damien

led

the

Association with great professionalism and insight, and brought the cause of coastal communities

right

the

heart of Government while he mentored many young people who are now running their own businesses.

Beannacht DeÂ lena anam

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

SEAFOOD DESK

Increased sales targeted at premier seafood show

Last month's IASC annual seafood show was attended by seafood processors, retailers and stakeholders from around the country.

Seafood show success for Irish processors OPENING the IASC, (Irish Association of Seafood Companies) annual seafood show last month, Dr Ivan Coulter, chairman of the Seafood Innovation Council highlighted the need for `joined-up' thinking of all agencies and stakeholders in the sector and to tailor opportunities in value adding for processors to meet the needs of the growing Irish market. Attended by seafood processors, retailers and stakeholders from around the country, BIM marketing manager presented an overview of the services to be provided by the organisa-

tion's new business development department and pending move to Clonakilty. He also clarified the move of the marketing function to Bord Bia and the next steps in the operation of the Seafood Development Centre. A concurrent trade show featured over 40 exhibitors, ranging from equipment to service suppliers, as well as seafood suppliers of fresh whitefish, dried fish, smoked salmon, sea trout, crab and prawns. Food writer John McKenna launched IASC's Seafood Lovers Cookbook which features simple seafood recipes

and tells the history of this sector''. At the Association's AGM the Committee was elected and 2008 achievements were reviewed. A key issue raised discussed credit management and developing relationships with fishermen. The situation in Northern Ireland, whereby fishermen and processors have developed a link of direct supply as opposed to the co-op system, was also discussed. C u r re n t me mb e rs h i p stands at more than 90 companies. For further information, see www.iasc.ie

INNOVATION, quality and building on Ireland's provenance were the main messages highlighted by BIM at the European Seafood Exposition in Brussels last month. The Ireland Pavilion provided a showcase for 18 seafood companies, which despite the economic downturn, continue to develop their business and create jobs. Products on display included bulk pelagic (mackerel, herring); fresh/live seafood (salmon,whitefish, crab, prawns/shrimp and mussels) and prepared or convenience seafood (fresh and frozen value-added seafood: pre-packed salmon; smoked salmon; whitefish; prepared prawns, mussels and crab). Over 1,650 exhibitors from 76 countries vied for business from more than 24,000 attendees, many of whom were seafood buyers, each with an estimated purchasing power of 2m. According to BIM, feedback from last year's show was `very positive'. Investment in showcasing Irish seafood companies over the last five years `has ensured Ireland has a strong position at the show. `This investment had paved the way for Ireland to build business relationships. Facing a global recession, it is important now more than ever that we drive innovation and new product development to ensure Ireland remains competitive.

The key messages highlighted by BIM at the European Seafood Exposition in Brussels last month were innovation, quality and building on Ireland's provenance.

Participating Irish companies

* Atlanfish Ltd * Atlantic Dawn Ltd * Atlantic Fare (ISPG) * C&O Milligan Ltd * Connemara Seafoods Ltd * Emerald Mussels Ltd * Errigal Fish Co. Ltd * Fastnet Mussels Ltd * Gallagher Bros (Fish Mer-

chants) Ltd

* Irish Seaspray Ltd * The Kenmare Salmon Co.

Ltd Killybegs Seafoods Ltd

* Norfish Ltd * O'Cathain Iasc Teo * Rooney Fish Ltd * Sean Ward (Fish Exports)

Ltd

* Shellfish De La Mer Ltd * Sofrimar Ltd

2008 displays positive trends in seafood sector BIM'S 2008 end of year review reveals that despite very difficult trading conditions across all principle markets, the Irish seafood sector `performed robustly', For 2009, the Board sees niche opportunities for growth especially in the export of organic products, most notably salmon and new innovative products in the whitefish and shellfish sectors. According to the review, scope exists to develop organic certified farmed salmon sector with the potential to create significant new jobs. In 2007, Ireland produced 10,000 tonnes of farmed salmon of which 70% was certified organic, and fetched a price premium 40% above the regular market price. `It is estimated that the markets could comfortably absorb at least another 5,000 tonnes of Irish organic farmed salmon without impacting on the price. An uplift of 5,000 tonnes in output of organic salmon from Ireland could generate up to 300 fulltime equivalent jobs in this area alone.' The Board's chief execu-

tive, Jason Whooley, noted, however, that sterling weakness significantly impacted on export values: ``We are seeing a shift in consumer purchasing away from higher premium seafood towards lower cost products. This has serious implications for trade in shellfish product, in particular, and also for certain whitefish.'' He added that while scope existed to achieve further cost savings, Irish seafood producers would find it increasingly difficult to compete solely on price in what is becoming a commodity-led seafood market place: ``Differentiating Irish seafood products will, therefore, be a key focus and BIM will be [driving] innovation and new product development to enable them to distinguish themselves from many of the low cost alternatives,'' he said. In terms of sustainability and quality, BIM is to roll out measures under the existing Quality Seafood Programme (QSP) to ensure that the industry adopts best practice when it comes to quality

standards, responsible fishing and environmental management. In terms of route to market, BIM is to take a `lead role' in progressing a strategy for the sector. ``These proposals will take into account each step in the chain from producer, processing and distribution to endcustomer for both domestic and export markets, and will make recommendations on optimum structures to drive competitiveness and valueadding capability,'' Whooley said. Whooley contends that given the economic climate, the industry will need to adopt a different approach to doing business: ``Traditional business models will need to change if we are to be profitable. The number of Irish companies competing with one another in the European market place cannot be sustained. At a minimum, there is scope for increased co-operation between many exporters and those serving the domestic market. This more collegiate approach must be pursued if we are to maximise the un-

doubted potential that exists,'' he said.

SUSTAINING JOBS

Approximately 11,000 people are either directly or indirectly employed in the fishing and aquaculture sectors. ``The current economic downturn and rise in unemployment further highlights the importance of traditional sectors and indigenous industries such as fishing. BIM will focus on maintaining employment in these areas and is set to drive key initiatives this year to enhance the importance of the fishing and aquaculture sectors as a platform for creating new jobs.''

TRAINING

Training and up-skilling is another key focus for BIM, having delivered training programmes for 1,900 seafood industry personnel last year. Further training programmes are planned at the regional training centres in Greencastle, Co Donegal and Castletownbere, Co Cork as well as aboard the three mobile coastal training units (CTUs). ``We look forward to 2009

being another successful year for the Irish seafood sector; however, we must continue to be innovative in our approach if we are to successfully meet the challenges posed by the global economic downturn and the resulting market difficulties. ``Through the seafood sector, Ireland can leverage a

KEYPOINTS *

Sales of salmon emerged as

the star performer whereby sales increased by 13% to 58.7m; pre-packed sales of salmon were up 28.8% on 2007. The pelagic sector also showed strong performance with sales of mackerel, horse mackerel, blue whiting and herring reaching 130m.

* Total retail sales volume of all seafood increased by 12% and the value increased by 3.2% to 185.8m.

key natural resource to sustain and grow both economic activity and jobs in key coastal communities. A continued strong focus on moving the industry further up the value chain should be a key priority as this is the only way that we can compete effectively in the global marketplace,'' Whooley concluded. responding value in 2007 and reflects adverse currency movements and rising consumer demand for lower valued seafood products. Seafood sales on the domestic market amounted to 381m while export sales totalled 350m.

* BIM investment in the

seafood sector amounted to 33.3m. Ninety-four aquaculture companies received 3.31m of an aggregate investment programme of

* Seafood sales on both

8.25m. Total investment for

domestic and export mar-

the Irish fleet and sea fish-

kets, excluding direct land-

eries amounted to 34.6m,

ings for Irish vessels into

with 1.33m provided to sup-

foreign ports, amounted to

port processing and market-

731m. This represents a

ing.

decline of 3.5% on the cor-

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

FISHERIES

Fishing fleet management policy

EDWARD FAHY

etween 1993 and 1997, four key indicators of the value of sea fisheries to the Irish economy Ð fish landings, aquaculture, processing and exports Ð rose in value. A working group, the National Strategy Review Group of the Common Fisheries Policy (NSRG), optimistically projected in 1999 that these indicators would continue to rise until 2006. This vision of the future was not shared by everyone. The Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) was notably sceptical in view of the volume of available fish stocks and the constraints imposed by quota. Common sense did little to dampen the euphoria of perceived investment opportunities, however, and fishers' leaders and those in state agencies associated with the industry were enthusiastic to proceed towards a larger infrastructure.

MODERNISATION In 1998, a whitefish renewal scheme valued at 116m was introduced. Its purpose was to replace boats that fished species such as cod, hake and prawns (whitefish) with more modern vessels. After much indecision, the size of Ireland's whitefish fleet had been definitively capped by the European Community by 1990. The ceiling on fishing capacity was intended to bring the size of the catching sector into balance with the available fish resource on which it depended. Two limiting criteria were defined, and could not be exceeded Ð the tonnage (GT) of the total fleet (literally the combined weight of all fishing vessels) and their engine power (the combined horse power or kilowatts (kW) used to drive them). Together, these are crude measures of a fleet's harvesting ability. A third critical

element in fishing efficiency not so easily quantified is `technology creep' Ð a variety of innovations that become more efficient over time and contribute to more successful catching. These include better vessel design, lighter materials, improved hydraulics and more accurate electronic navigation. Suffice to say of two vessels having identical GT and kW, the later one is invariably more capable and efficient at locating and killing fish than the one it replaces. Between 1998 and 2006, 62 new vessels were delivered to the Irish fleet, along with 17 modern second hand ones. A further 77 underwent modernization, and 650 were modified for safety reasons within the terms of the whitefish renewal scheme.

CONTRARY PROPOSAL In July 2005, before completion of the programme, the chairman of NSRG, the committee which had advocated expansion, published a contrary proposal that a substantial proportion of the now expanded fleet, whose modernisation had made it economically too large for the resource, should be decommissioned. Decommissioning is fatal because it is irreversible. Once a vessel has been bought out, its tonnage is lost to the fleet in perpetuity. Oddly, a principal plank in the argument for reducing the whitefish fleet by almost 11,000 tonnes (25%) was the deteriorating status of quota species Ð `quotas have fallen by almost 50% since 1990'. Yet that was the argument against expansion in the first place, which was proposed by the ESRI and summarily dismissed by NSRG. When the Cawley report was published in December 2006, the discrepancy between fish stocks and catching power was considered to have further widened, so that an increase of 45% in landings would be required to

Decommissioning has not bypassed the whitefish stronghold at Dingle on the south coast. support the refurbished fleet.

TAKE-UP SHORTFALL The original target of decommissioning almost 11,000 GT of whitefish vessels was not reached, and only 27 boats amounting to 3,320 GT were scrapped. But that did not mean that modernisation has ceased, or that the size of the fleet was any smaller. At any given time, whether decommissioning is in operation or not, boats cease to operate. They may have been sold on to work as part of another nation's fishing capacity or have been broken up, having reached the end of their useful lives. And when, in the absence of decommissioning the hull has been destroyed or the vessel moves elsewhere, its GT remains within the national fleet to which it was assigned. Such GT, then described as dormant, is handled by brokers who sell it on to the next purchaser of a fishing boat, so that he can comply with the licensing process. Paradoxically, dormant tonnage may also be bought by anyone who has

Safety training saves lives

he Irish Sea Fisheries Board, BIM, has launched an awareness campaign to highlight their safety training courses aimed primarily at fishermen, entitled `Stay Safe at Sea'. Speaking at the launch, Tony Killeen, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Food said he `fully supported the initiative'. Since 2000, 49 Irish fishermen have lost their lives at sea. 2007 was the worst year, with thirteen deaths recorded. Under current fishing vessel regulations, all crew members must undergo basic safety training and must wear Per-

sonal Flotation Devices, especially when working on the deck of a fishing vessel. ``I would encourage all fishermen to pay heed to these regulations and ensure they also know how to correctly use their Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB), which signals the Coastguard in an emergency, by completing a BIM radio training course,'' he said. The objective of the campaign is to remind fishermen that basic safety training is mandatory, as is the wearing of personal flotation devices. During the three-day course, fishermen learn personal survival techniques and elementary first aid, as

decommissioned a vessel and wishes to re-enter the industry. This is an exercise that has been described as `displacing back into the fleet'. The next phase of decommissioning, due to take place in 2007, had a target of 11,140 GT. However, cutbacks intervened and the scheme, introduced by Minister Tony Killeen in 2008, aimed to decommission 46 vessels of greater than 18m in length, with a combined weight of 7,590 GT. 41.1m was budgeted for the task. The combination of whitefish renewal (providing more modern vessels) and decommissioning (removing the older, less competitive ones) was de sc ribed by Mary Coughlan during her brief tenure as Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, as `delivering a modern, internationally competitive whitefish fleet'. Fleet modernisation is financed by the Irish and European taxpayer. The vessel owner who obtains a grant to purchase a more efficient boat has an advantage over his neighbour who is not so favoured. And he is further

blessed when less efficient vessels are removed from the fleet and their potential landings fall to him. When decommissioning takes place in other parts of Europe, it is open to vessels of a wide size range. In Ireland, only boats of greater than 18m in length were eligible to apply. That would be acceptable if large vessels were restricted to fishing offshore grounds, but such is not the case. They are free to fish close inshore in competition with smaller boats, using similar fishing gears whose owners are not entitled to modernise through decommissioning. In short, these modernisation schemes are a way of rewarding a small minority of large operators. This is a phenomenon with which we are becoming more familiar each day in other spheres of activity. Why it should be necessary to grant-aid vessels belonging to private operators with taxpayers' money at any time, and particularly when fishing capacity is excessive and 75% of European fish stocks are over-exploited, must be

well as fire prevention and safety awareness, including the importance of maintaining good fishing vessel stability in all operating conditions. BIM chief executive, Jason Whooley, outlined the rationale for the campaign.

BIM SAFETY TRAINING

He said: ``BIM trained 1,900 seafood industry personnel in 2008, 640 of whom received BIM Safety Training cards. The `Stay Safe at Sea' campaign is designed to heighten awareness of safety in the fishing sector, and this is reflected in Government policy and funding for this essential service.''

Minister of State Tony Killeen and Jason Whooley, CEO of BIM at the launch of `Stay Safe at Sea'.

PICTURE: G Mills questioned, especially when the exercise puts fellow fishers out of business.

DISCRIMINATION Why such funding should be so discriminatory towards larger boat owners is a matter of public concern. If the fleet is too large, it is certainly in the public interest that it is downsized, so as to bring it into balance with the resource on which the industry depends. That objective, however, could be secured by purchasing tonnage directly from brokers as vessels leave the fleet at the end of their working lives. Currently, whitefish tonnage is believed to be available for approximately 4,500 on the market, while its purchase by government through decommissioning can cost the taxpayer up to 7,500 per GT. And, while decommissioning may remove a vessel, it does not constrain its owner from, quite legally, obtaining a replacement (new or second hand) and himself purchasing GT capacity through a broker on the open market.

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

FISHERIES

NSRAC pushes for self-regulation

he North Sea Regional Advisory Council (NSRAC) has heavily criticised a new Control Regulation emerging from the European Commission (EC) that questions `should the police write the laws?' The NSRAC believes the Regulation, currently in the discussion phase, is ``a backward looking document'', emphasising electronic monitoring and more controls for the EC. It is described as advocating a top-down approach, ignoring recent developments that encouraged a more participative approach. At a meeting of the NSRAC's Demersal Working Group in Berlin, members said it appeared to have been written by a control specia-

list, without regard for wider interests. There was particular anger over the narrowing of the margin of tolerance for weighing catches to less than 5%. The NSRAC has repeatedly written to the EC expressing concern that a margin of 8% was insufficient, and believes the 5% rule could not be complied with. `Ìmplementation of the Regulation as it stands would be a disaster for the industry,'' remarked chairman of the NSRAC's Demersal Working Group, Barrie Deas. `Àt a time when the new Green Paper into reform of the Common Fisheries Policy might put a case for more self-regulation within an overall audited framework, this new regulation is visiting the past. `Ìt is too prescriptive and

sets out complex rules which are impossible to understand and are unenforceable. ``We would need to develop our own, more participatory approach and to flesh out solutions based on self-regulation and industry involvement. ``The core policy issue is achieving sustainable fisheries, not enforcing rigid rules,'' he said. The control of North Sea shrimpers was cited as an example of the perversity of the regulation Ð this fleet would be controlled by four different electronic systems. There are no quotas, no closed areas and no effort limitations applying to the fleet Ð the only rule they could break would be to fail to have their tracking systems in good order, the NSRAC contends.

On the search for horse mussel beds in Ireland

oastwatch, the environmental group that champions public awareness of the coastal zone, is hoping to find signs of horse mussel activity around the shores. ``Can fishermen provide information where scientists have failed?'' Karin Dubsky, International co-or-

dinator, Coastwatch Europe said to . The horse-mussel is larger than the standard blue mussel ( ) species by about 10cm and is typically found on the low shore or sublittoral. The inside of the large shell is usually shinier, browner and has a rounder Inshore Ireland

Mytilus

`Welcome Puffin' weekend

elcome Puffin' weekend on May 23&24 is just one of the events organised by the proactive staff of the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) on Rathlin Island. This event is an activity and information day to explain about the ``incredible wee bird, the puffin' as described to Inshore Ireland by Imelda McFaul, Visitor and Community Officer, one of the very informative RSPB staff members based at the Seabird Viewpoint at the West Lighthouse on Rathlin

Island. Did you know the puffin is the most non birdlike bird in the world! It stays with the same mate for its life time, which can be over 40 years; it breeds on the same spot every year; it has one chick. About six weeks after the `puffling' is born in a burrow, mummy puffin flies off into the Atlantic Ocean to organise moving house. Dad coerces the wee soul out of the burrow for a quick swimming lesson and off they go to swim/fly for approximately three months to their new home on the crest of a wave!

and blunt front end. It used to be found in Irish waters but has this shellfish been fished out or otherwise lost,'' she asks? * If you know of a patch or bed of live horse-mussels, contact Karin Dubsky on 086 8111684 or kdubsky@ coastwatch.org

Paris meeting debates key challenges to fisheries management in Europe AT an executive committee meeting of the North Western Waters Regional Advisory The following year the whole Council (NWWRAC) in Paris process begins again Ð it's a on April 21, the forthcoming review of the Common Fishfascinating story. You too could find out about the other species of Initiatives to bird on the island, including the only pair of breeding improve choughs in Northern Ireland. management of An excellent FREE visit. Other events include: stocks such as * 27/28 June: Chicks on the West of Scotland Rocks * 25/26 July: Bye Bye Puffin haddock and For further information about the RSPB or the Seabird Centre on Rathlin contact 00 44 28 207 60062 or www.rspb.org.uk

Celtic Sea cod were also discussed

eries Policy, the reform of the control system, and the marine spatial planning policy were discussed with representatives from the EU Commission and the International Council for the Exploration of the Seas (ICES) Initiatives to improve management of stocks such as West of Scotland haddock, nephrops in VII, scallops in the Channel and Celtic Sea cod were also discussed. The NWWRAC is the principal stakeholder group, incorporating representatives from the fishing industry and environmental Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), consumers and other

interested parties. The NWWRAC is consulted by the EU Commission and ICES on all matters relevant to the North West Waters. Sam Lambourn, chairman of the NWWRAC said he hoped the meeting would help deliver an agreed response to the Commission's proposed reform of control and enforcement of rules of the CFP: ``This policy is very important to the fishing industry as it

could

have

very

serious

ramifications; the RACs need to provide advice now that will ensure practical and fair implementation

he said.

this

policy,''

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

MARINE R&D

FIG 1: This screen capture shows three schools of herring. It is very important that the sonar provides the necessary dynamics and resolution, as this allows the net to be set on the right school. The white audio line is positioned over the two schools. In the vertical view, the school closest to the vessel is slightly larger and denser than the other two.

FIG 2: This screen capture shows that the net has been set. The vertical view in the bottom right corner shows that the school is located close to the surface and near the net wall. No fish are escaping. In the top right screen presentation, you can see the depth data from the PI sensor mounted on the footrope.

Simrad answers user requests for sound and enhanced noise filtering solution

new software update for Simrad's flagship SX90 Sonar introduces audio output, enhanced noise filtering and a number of minor software fixes. The new software is flagged as an important update and is available free-of-charge from Simrad dealers. Once installed, users need only connect a pair of

powered speakers to the SX90 computer to take full advantage of the new audio functionality. The Simrad SX90 is a low frequency, high-definition, long range sonar. It uses two high-end computers to process data from the transducer, making it the most powerful Simrad sonar ever released. It is also the most powerful professional com-

mercial sonar on the market today, which is reflected in the fact that over 120 SX90s have been sold since its introduction. Though an excellent performer at shorter range, the Simrad SX90 sonar is specially designed for vessels where long range detection is important. The addition of audio output will enable skippers and crew to listen for

echo returns as opposed to constantly keeping watch on the sonar screen. ``We had audio output on the Simrad SP60, SP70 and SP90 sonars. Users who have upgraded to the SX90 have eagerly been awaiting this audio functionality,'' commented Mads Dahl, sales director. ``The audio in a sonar contains as much information as

the visual presentation. So for experienced users, the addition of sound to the SX90 adds a whole level of detail that will help improve catch efficiency,'' he added. The new SX90 software update also enhances the noise filter functionality to improve the clarity of the onscreen images. With the software update installed, the noise filtering will take place

on each individual receiver channel (as before), and also after the beamforming. The noise filter offers three settings: weak, which does not affect targets; medium, which is suitable for detecting schools of fish and strong, which is recommended for users experiencing a problem with noise.

* www.simrad.comformore

information.

INFOMAR update

he INFOMAR ProjectÐ Ireland's national marine mapping programme Ð has completed its first survey of 2009, in the Shannon Estuary. The programme, jointly managed by the Geological Survey of Ireland and the Marine Institute, is funded under the NDP and focused on mapping the inshore waters and bays not surveyed under the Irish National Seabed Survey. Mapping in the Shannon Estuary covered over 110km2 and was completed under challenging conditions as the area is an SAC for dolphins, requiring restrictions on operations. Attenuation studies, however, carried out with the multibeam sonar system used on the Marine Institute's Celtic Voyager in advance of the work commencing, demonstrated that the system operates outside the range of

hearing or potential damage to the various cetaceans known in the area. The survey was particularly assisted by the port authorities at Foynes who provided invaluable local logistical support and will be one of the many stakeholders to benefit from the results of the survey and the eventual updated charts.

CROSS AGENCY PROJECT

In other INFOMAR news, a related project Ð the Irish Spatial Data Exchange (ISDE) has been honoured with an eGovernment Award as leading Cross Agency project. The ISDE provides webbased access to metadata, or `data about data' from the different project partners, namely GSI (and their parent department Communications, Energy and Natural Resources), MI, EPA and CMRC.

The ISDE team at the eGovernment awards ceremony. Back row, from left: Tom Stafford, EPA; Yvonne Shields, Marine Institute; Minister Mary Hanafin, TD; Koen Verbruggen, GSI. Front row, from left: Ray Scanlon, GSI; Eoin O'Grady, project leader, Marine Institute and John Evans, Marine Institute.

The principle is that each organisation looks after its own metadata and data sites, but that these are all linked and are `searchable' from one web location. The origin of the project is a collaboration between MI and GSI under the INFOMAR forerunner, INSS, as a way of easing

public access to data and avoiding confusion over how to find public data. Importantly, as the project evolves, it will help ensure compliance with the new EU INSPIRE directive relating to public access to government held spatial environmental data.

* Further details can be found at www.isde.ie

Next up for INFOMAR will be a survey of Dingle Bay where the Celtic Voyager is scheduled to work between mid-May and mid-June. In parallel, commissioning work continues of the GSI's new inshore launch, RV

KEARY. Its first mission will be completion of the mapping of Dublin Bay where the Celtic Voyager worked last year. INFOMAR's annual seminar is scheduled for October at which details of all recent survey work and sponsored research will be presented.

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

MARINE R&D

Putting a value on Ireland's ocean economy MICHAEL O'TOOLE & JENNY O'LEARY SEA CHANGE MANAGEMENT UNIT, MARINE INSTITUTE

nowledge and information on socio-economics aspects of the Irish marine sector are essential to identify opportunities for future development, growth and competitiveness. In 2005, the Marine Institute published Ireland's first economic report for the marine sector as part of its Foresight Series (Ireland's Ocean Economy and Resources) and in preparation for the development of Sea Change: A marine Knowledge, Research & Innovation Strategy for Ireland 2007-2013.

The report estimates that the marine sector is worth 3bn to the Irish economy and supports about 44,000 jobs. In preparing the report, it was clear that large data gaps existed in relation to economic/socio-economic aspects of Ireland's marine economics. To address this gap the Marine Institute, via the Beaufort Socio-Economic Award,

Research

provides funding to NUI, Galway and Teagasc

with the aim of building capacity and capability in marine economic/socio-economic research.

BI-ANNUAL REPORT

As part of this award, the group is developing a methodology for ongoing collection and analysis of economic data associated with the marine sector. The researchers will be producing a bi-annual report of the value of Ireland's marine sector, the first of which is due in July 2010. To assist the researchers, the Marine Institute hosted a meeting of marine socio-economic experts and stakeholders at its headquarters in Oranmore, Galway on 10 March 2009. The workshop brought together key stakeholders to review the data in a number of sectors and to assess its usefulness for knowledge-based economic planning and policy development. The keynote speaker was Dr Regis Kalaydjian, senior economist with the French Institute (Ifremer), who outlined how the French compile and publish marine economic statistics on a bi-annual basis. He said that the French maritime economy is worth over 20bn and provides em-

The Marine Tourism & Leisure Sector is the second largest contributor to the Irish Maritime Economy. The sector already significantly contributes to regional, rural and coastal economies; the current economic climate offers further opportunities for the growth of this sector. The arrival of the Volvo Ocean Race to Galway in May is an example of the significant contribution this sector can make to the local and Irish economy.

ployment for 400,000 people. The key organisations who participated included BIM, who presented the surveys it undertakes to collect economic data associated with fisheries and aquaculture; the Marine Institute (IMDO) who presented an overview of the shipping and maritime transport sector, and SEI and

LATE NEWS

Breaches in water quality continue

n 2008, Galway County Council was prosecuted by the Environmental Protection Agency for failure to comply with a direction to improve the security of their water supply, and a further 283 notifications of failure to meet drinking water standards were issued. These are some of the findings in the latest report on drinking water quality in Ireland during 2007 and 2008, from the agency charged with monitoring Ireland's water standards. Dara Lynott, director, EPA Office of Environmental Enforcement said that sustained investment in infrastructure was needed to deliver clean drinking water. ``Clean drinking water is vital to sustain our health and well-being and we rely upon it Ă? particularly those involved in the services, manufacturing and tourism industries. ``Such investment during these tough economic times will provide the platform for sustainable development into the future. ``Operators of drinking water plants are in the business of producing a food source and protecting public health. As treatment technologies advance, there will need to be a corresponding upskilling of those charged with the operation and management of drinking water treatment plants. Using free on-

line tools such as those available on the website www.Greenbusiness.ie allows business and educational establishments to calculate losses of water through unintentional emissions and cut costs for business,'' he said. Between January and September 2008, the EPA also audited 59 water treatment plants and issued 47 legally binding directions to 15 local authorities requiring specific actions to be undertaken to improve the security of their supplies. Safety of drinking water (i.e. comparing the results of almost 240,000 monitoring tests against national and EU standards): * E. coli was detectedonat least one occasion in 52 out of 952 public water supplies. This figure is down from 77 in the previous year (2006) and indicates that intermittent contamination of approximately 5% of public water supplies occurred in 2007. * The number of private group water schemes where E. coli was detected dropped from 246 in 2006 to 184 in 2007. Desite the improvement, however, over 31% of private group water schemeswerecontaminatedat least once during 2007. * Overall compliance with the chemical standards was satisfactory at 99.1%, but challenges will exist to comply with the tighter lead standard in 2013. * Compliance with several

indicator parameters, in particular compliance with aluminium and turbidity parametric values, remains poor. Security of water supplies (i.e. the management of the risks to the drinking water treatment plant and supply network): * Of the 339 public water supplies identified by the EPA and placed on a Remedial ActionList(RAL)inearly2008, 83supplieswereremovedfrom the list having completed the necessary remedial actions and 62 were added. Overall, at the end of March 2009, there were 320 supplies on the RAL. * Boil water notices or restrictions of use (e.g. do not drink) wereputinplaceon53supplies serving approximately 118,000 persons in 2008. Adverse weather conditions in August 2008aloneledtotheimposition of boil water notices on 20 supplies. This is the EPA's second report on drinking water quality following 2007 regulations providing for a greater level of consumer protection. The regulations require local authorities to notify the EPA and the Health Service Executive where there is a potential risk to human health, and to comply with their directions. The Provision and Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland, A Report for the Years 2007 to 2008 is available on the EPA

web site at www.epa.ie

PICTURE: David Branigan, Oceansport

SRL Consulting who outlined the significant economic opportunities associated with both the renewable ocean energy and offshore oil and gas sectors. A presentation by Teagasc on lessons learned from collecting data as part of the National Farm Survey provided very useful informa-

tion and experiences which could be applied to data collection efforts in the marine sector. Teagasc stressed the importance of two-way communication between the farmers and the agency as being the ingredients for success and that giving something back to those who contributed to

these surveys was an essential element in the building of trust and confidence in the data collected. For further information on the work being carried out by the Beaufort Socio-Economic research in relation to valuing the marine sector, contact Karyn Morrissey (Karyn.Morrissey@teagasc.ie)

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

MARINE GEOPARK

A world first on the island of Ireland

BY WENDY SCOTT

n 2008, the world's first UNESCO international geopark was established around the Marble Arch caves network and Cuilcagh Mountain Park, between Fermanagh and Cavan. ``Geology has no borders,'' remarked Richard Watson, manager of Marble Arch Caves European Geopark.

Inshore Ireland paid a visit to this fascinating site to view the underwater caves, stalagmites and stalactites, blanket bogs, limestone pavements and glacial ridges, to name only a few of the amazing features. ``UNESCO stands for the `United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation', and a `Geopark' is an area comprising a number of sites of special geological

Gathering research on Cuilcagh mountain.

PICTURE: W Scott

interest in terms of their scientific quality, rarity, aesthetic appeal and educational value,'' explained geologist Dr Kirstin Lemon. ``The sites must be part of the area's geological heritage; however, they may also include areas of cultural, historical, ecological and or archaeological interest.'' Marble Arch Caves were originally opened in 1985 by Fermanagh District Council and, since then, the facility has grown in size and has gone from strength to strength to become one of the island's leading tourist attractions. In 2001, Marble Arch Caves and Cuilcagh Mountain Park were jointly awarded the title of a European Geopark and subsequently a Global Geopark in 2004. There are currently 33 European Geoparks, and a total of 57 worldwide. In 2008, a successful application was made to the European Geoparks to expand the Marble Arch Caves Geopark across the border with the Republic of Ireland into Co Cavan, resulting in the world's first UNESCO International Geopark. Inshore Ireland asked Richard Watson why Marble Arch decided to go for this status and what benefits it is

MARBLE ARCH CAVES

Underground cave of straws, stalactites and stalacmites.

G L O B A L G E O PA R K

Created over 300 million years, this is one of Europe’s ﬁnest showcaves. Explore this unique network of caves with a fascinating natural underworld of rivers, waterfalls, winding passages and lofty chambers by boat and on foot. Open late March to September. Last tour 4.30pm (July - August 5.00pm) The Geopark is also an ideal location for both leisurely strolls and more serious hill walking, playing host to the 33km Cuilcagh Way and many shorter but no less scenic walking routes.

Pre-booking is recommended.

M A R B L E A R C H C AV E S

PICTURE: Fermanagh Lakelands Tourism

bringing to the area. ``Becoming the first International Global Geopark has sent out a very strong message to the rest of the world, that our two countries can work very well together,'' he explained. ``Being a part of this global community increases our worldwide profile, and has helped us secure funding from other bodies. It also provides an opportunity to network with other agencies and countries to assist in economic development, such as increasing tourism and creating jobs, and helps to support environmental education.'' The Geoparks aim to help maintain the best quality examples of heritage, habitats, biodiversity and geology worldwide to educate about history and the world around us. The Marble Arch Geopark offers a window into the

area's 650 million year old history. The Geopark offers many attractions and activities, including a 75-minute tour around the cave network, including a short boat trip, where guides explain how the features developed, and walking trips through Cuilcagh Mountain Park to see examples of the geological history. The Geopark also has a restaurant, souvenir shop, audio-visual theatre and an exhibition area. School groups can avail of interactive sessions and activities developed to suit curriculums in both the North and the South; field trips and foreign exchanges are also an option for third-level students. The opportunities are endless, and there is so much to see and do. You can spend a great day here, but a few days would be even better.

G L O B A L G E O PA R K

Marlbank Scenic Loop · Florencecourt · Co. Fermanagh · Northern Ireland Tel: +44 (0) 28 6634 8855 · Fax: +44 (0) 28 6634 8928 · Email: info@marblearchcavesgeopark.com · www.marblearchcavesgeopark.com

For more details, contact Marble Arch Caves on 0044 (0)28 6634 8855 or visit www.marblearchcaves.net

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

ISLAND LIVING

A `model' for future generations BY WENDY SCOTT

odel yacht building and racing is making a comeback on Rathlin Island to ensure these age-old traditions are not lost. Inshore Ireland went out to see the first model yachts being made in many years, under the instruction of Loughie McQuilken. Loughie is the one of the oldest inhabitants on the island and he has been involved in building and sailing the model boats for

It was an activity involving the Loughie with his winning boat Shamrock.

whole island

over 70 years. The yachts are made out of a single piece of wood that is chiselled, tapered and hollowed out with precision. These types of boats have been competing against one another for over two hundred years, some having been passed down from one generation to the next. Loughie told Inshore Ireland that boats built on each end of the island would compete against each other. One week the race would be held on Lake Cleggan on the north end and the next week on Lake Ushet on the sound end. The yachts were transported by horse and cart Ð it was an activity involving the whole island and was fiercely competitive. The boats dimensions have changed over the years.

Loughie has vague recollections of his father working on his boat in the kitchen of their labourer's cottage and having to put a hole in the roof in order to stand the boat upright to allow for the mast. He believes the boats then were between 4ft and 6ft long. In the 1940s, the boats became smaller, and nowadays they are 22 inches from bow to stern, with a beam of 8 inches amidships. The boats are rigged with a mainsail, jib and what the islanders call a square sail, or a scudd which is similar to a spinnaker. Six races take place during a season with the first being held on Easter Sunday and the last race in August. The course is decided by the race judge, on the day depending on the weather, but normally

includes two tacking legs and one scudding/spinnaker run. With the sails set, the yachts are pointed towards a designated mark on the other side of the lake, between two flags. A member of the team runs around the lake and makes changes to the boat's direction if required. When the boats arrive on the other side, a team member resets the sails and off the yacht goes again. Each race is for a trophy with an overall winner's trophy at the end of the season. Loughie remembers up to 17 boats competing at one time and he hopes to see the same number again one day. For further information contact the Tourist Information centre, Ballycastle, on 0044 (0) 28 207 62024.

It isn't only summer that has arrived on Rathlin MARY O'DRISCOLL he clocks have leaped forward, the days are longer and nights are shorter, lawnmowers are humming and the air is full of the sweet smell of new mown grass. All signs of the new season ahead Ð and the Rathlin Ferry has begun its 10 return trips daily schedule. Yes, summer has arrived. The harsh and howling winds of the mid-march lion are but a memory. We have wintered well on Ireland's most northerly island.

NEW BORN

New-born lambs replace wilting golden daffodils in almost every road side paddock from Magilligan to Fair Head. Most exciting of all, however, is the

arrival baby McMullan, a daughter for Peter and Julianne and sister to SoÂirõÂn, who arrived on Rathlin on April 2. Niamh Ocean Cecil who was our youngest inhabitant until now, is fast approaching her first birthday in June. RATHLIN NUPTUALS

And on May 23 we will celebrate our first island wedding of 2009, when Hugh Hainey and Nikki Sebastian will tie the knot. This will be a joyous occasion, marked by a ceÂilidh at McCuaigs. For this season, the Rathlin Island Ferry service is offering ten return daily trips between Ballycastle and Rathlin. The islanders and the ferry service will be guiding groups of all ages through the hills and dells, and will

share some secrets of the hidden treasures and mysteries of this special place. WELCOMING

Perhaps the warm welcome from our Rathlin escorts will encourage some of our visitors to make a leap across the sea of Moyle and move to Rathlin to become a part of this TõÂr na nOÂg? OõÂsõÂn is close by, and has been seen now and then on the capall baÂn. Deirdre and Naoise had some time out here before facing back to the mainland doom and gloom that awaited them. So, escape from the credit crunch and wage cuts of mainland Ireland, particularly if you are a 60+ or 65 smart pass holder, as we can ferry you for free. These passes are honoured on both

The Rathlin Island Ferry service is offering ten return daily trips between Ballycastle and Rathlin.

our ferries. For southern pass holders you need to apply to the Department of Social Welfare to have your NI pass issued, so that you can come north with Bus EÂireann and Translink and enjoy the delights of all North East Antrim, particularly Rathlin Island Ð a place apart.

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

Bantry / Dunmanus entry

Galway Bay lidar coverage

www.gsi.ie

www.marine.ie

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

COASTLINE NEWS

Lagan Legacy Ð keeping our history and heritage alive!

BY WENDY SCOTT henever you come across a worthwhile cause, you always find it is supported by a few very committed people working passionately for the benefit of all! Inshore Ireland paid a visit to the industrious home of Lagan Legacy on the banks of the River Lagan in Belfast. Lagan Legacy is a charitable organisation that came about as a result of a salvage operation carried out by the Lagan Boat Company (NI) Ltd in 2002. Harland and Wolff were one of the world's leading ship builders in the 19th century employing thousands of people; however, due to the changing world, shipbuilding in Belfast declined and between 1999 and 2002 a demolition process began to remove many of the disused buildings around the docks. During this demolition process, the Lagan Boat Company discovered that the maritime heritage of one of the former giants of the shipbuilding industry was inadvertently being destroyed. Not only were the physical buildings being lost forever, but also a significant archive

of ships' engineering plans. Lagan Boat Company wanted to preserve this heritage, and founded the charity to promote, preserve, protect and educate about the maritime history and heritage of Belfast. One of their current projects is the refit of the Dutch barge, Confiance, which is permanently moored on the River Lagan at Lanyon Quay opposite the Waterfront Hall. In an effort to achieve a greener footprint, research is underway to power the vessel by solar panels, wind and geothermal power.

Lagan legacy hopes to bring heritage and history to life by not only having their offices on the barge, but by creating a digital maritime heritage gallery and by providing a multifunctional arts performance space for cultural activities and future projects. Community recognition and support comes in many forms, such as that provided by Clyde Marine Services who donated the motor launch Ranger that was built by Harland and Wolff in Belfast just 12 years after RMS Titanic.

Lagan Legacy is a charitable organisation that came about as a result of a salvage operation carried out by the Lagan Boat Company (NI) Ltd in 2002.

``The 8.5 tonne teak tender served with the P&O passenger ship SS Mooltan which Ranger accompanied on her maiden voyage via Suez to Colombo, Melbourne and Sydney in December 1923. Ranger's main duty was to transport passengers to and from the ship,'' Charlie Warmington from Lagan Legacy told Inshore Ireland. The Ranger will be used to give maritime heritage tours on the river. * TofindoutmoreaboutLagan Legacy log on to www.laganlegacy.com

Lagan Boat Company wanted to preserve maritime heritage, and founded the charity to promote, protect and educate about the maritime history of Belfast

Ronan McGlynn, OTT Hydrometry and Dr Guy Westbrook, Marine Institute, on AÂrainn MhoÂr.

Tide gauge at Â rainn MhoÂr A AÂ RAINN MhoÂ r has joined national tide monitoring following the installation of a tide gauge at the ferry breakwater by the Marine Institute and OTT-Hydrometry. The gauge measures the height of the tide at regular six-minute intervals as well as temperature and atmospheric pressure. All the information is sent back over the mobile phone network to the Marine Institute headquarters where it is analysed and used to generate a range of useful information, including: * Real-time data to an Internet site to support recreational

users, navigation and commercial activities * Tidalpredictions,bothinthe form of software tools and paper publications * Flood warnings * Long-term sea level variability. The gauge is a joint initiative between the Marine Institute, Donegal Co Council and Comharchumann Forbartha & FostaõÂochta AÂrainn MhoÂ r, and has been part funded under the Marine RTDI Measure of the National Development Plan 2000-2006, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Rathlin... A world away for a day Summer 2009

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07.50* 09.15 09.20

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Bookings: 028 2076 9299 www.rathlinballycastleferry.com

Vice Commodore (shore) Mark Mackey is pictured above drawing the winning entry, watched by Elaine Taylor along with participants of the sailing course held at Ballyholme Yacht Club over the Easter holidays.

Sailing course at Ballyholme Yacht Club

AT the Irish Skipper expo in Galway, Inshore Ireland ran a competition for two nights' accommodation courtesy of the new Ramada Encore Hotel in Belfast (www.EncoreBelfast.co.uk), during the Belfast Maritime Festival and Tall Ships Challenge from 13 to 16 August 2009. The winner, Rosaleen O'Driscoll from Baltimore, Co Cork, was drawn by the Vice Commodore (shore-based) of Bally-

holme Yacht Club Bangor, during a recent sailing course held at the club. Inshore Ireland provided a LaserPerformance BUG sailing dinghy for trial. For details on the BUG, contact McCreadys Sailboats Ltd on 0044 (0)28 90 421821 or www.McCreadysSailboats.co.uk Ballyholme has a 700 strong membership including a number of past Olym-

pians. The club is anxiously awaiting news of whether they have been successful in their bid to become an Olympic training facility for 2012; Inshore Ireland wishes them the best of luck. Ballyholme Yacht Club is running a sailing course for adults from 17 to 19 June. Further details are available from Elaine Taylor on 0044 (0)77 111 22322.

INSHORE IRELAND

Seaplanes return to Fermanagh

BY WENDY SCOTT

n Sunday 24 May, the skies over Fermanagh will be taken over with the unique sight of 10 seaplanes from all over Europe. The Amphibious Flying Club is hosting the Fermanagh Seaplane Festival at the Share Holiday Village in Fermanagh where a selection of Cessna, Maules and J3 cub aircraft will wow visitors. The Fermanagh and Lough Erne water system is 300 square miles and has a famous seaplane heritage, where Catalinas and Sunderlands were based during World War II. The water system was also described by a Canadian pilot as being

``One of the most beautiful runways in the world.'' These original seaplanes were built by Short Bros. Belfast, and were used by the Atlantic Bomber Command to protect the convoys en route to Britain from the USA. During the festival, these seaplanes will fly along the Donegal Corridor and land at Lough Esk. The Donegal Corridor is part of the seaplane heritage; it is the route the seaplanes took to the Atlantic Ocean, saving them considerable time and fuel. Families, enthusiasts and those seeking adventure will have the chance to fly in the seaplanes and see Fermanagh from the air. Other activities will include helicopter rides and model seaplane displays.

Visitors will also be able to participate in many waterbased activities. The day before, on 23 May, smaller planes will land in Enniskillen town centre, to support the RNLI's fundraising event. That evening, the share centre will host a WWII themed evening dinner; guest speaker Ted Jones who was During the festival, the seaplanes will fly along the Donegal Corridor and land at Lough Esk

May/June 2009

COASTLINE NEWS

based in Fermanagh during WWII will talk of his experience on the seaplanes. ``We know not everyone wants to, or can go up in the planes or helicopters, so we have made sure there is lots to do on the ground and water for everyone to enjoy,'' remarked Steve Powell, pilot and organiser from Lake and Air Events. Unique hospitality and sponsorship opportunities will also be available, offering the chance to entertain guests on land and air. For tickets to the WWII themed dinner and for all information telephone/fax 0044 (0)28 6634 6861 Ă? Unit 7, St Angelo Airport, Trory, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, BT94 2F or send an email to: info@corkercommunications.co.uk

Competition in association with Seaplane Festival and Inshore Ireland Win a trip for two on a sea-

A) The Share Centre,

with your name, address and

Winners must be fit to fly and

plane at the Fermanagh Sea-

Fermanagh

contact telephone number to

over 16.

plane Festival on 24 May.

B) The Erne Centre,

info@corkercommunications.co.uk

Answer the following question: Where Seaplane

7bb h_]^ji h[i[hl[Z$ Â&#x17E;(&&. BWi[hF[h\ehcWdY[$

place?

the

Fermanagh

Festival

Ensure to include Seaplane

Fermanagh C) The Seaplane Centre,

Competition/ Inshore

Fermanagh

the

subject

box

Ireland of

your

email. Good luck!

taking Please

send

your

answer

Terms and conditions apply.

Weather restrictions apply. Prize must be used on event date. Trip time is 15min. Winner

must

agree

included in promotional material/ photos.

On Sunday 24 May, the skies over Fermanagh will be taken over with the unique sight of 10 seaplanes from all over Europe.

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 2009

BOOK REVIEW

Shipwreck Inventory of Ireland Ð Louth, Meath, Dublin and Wicklow

SEAN CULLEN

tions are known they have been listed. Some positions

f you are looking for a

are as vague as: `Bottle with

good

a message picked up in Irish

swashbuckling

read of grim nautical

Sea

tales, then this `inven-

had foundered,'' but nonethe-

stating that the Petrel

tory' is not for you.

less

intriguing

whereas

Nevertheless, with over 3,000

wrecks discovered by the Ir-

entries from the east coast

ish National Seabed Survey

taking in Louth, Meath, Du-

give

blin and Wicklow, this is a

one metre.

co-ordinates

to within

Many of the wrecks listed

comprehensive record of all

have since broken up and all

wreck reports prior to 1945. Some 480 pages are filled

but disappeared. Some, how-

with the listings compiled by

ever, may be uncovered by

the archive unit of the Na-

future

tional

Service

then this inventory will come

with brief details of the ves-

into its own. Over 100 more

Monuments

Only 11

been

pages are given to a history of

expanded to include greater

the coastal archaeology in the

ken to ensure that only refer-

detail,

area, and the all-important

enced

quality images leave the read-

maps

er wanting more.

Wrecks are also indexed by

included, and the meticulous bibliography those

who

detail

wrecks.

here

the

high

wreck

bene fit

Wreck hunters may be dis-

garner

appointed to find very vague

tical

individual

positional data in most cases.

researcher.

will

want

and

have

and

involved. Care has been tais

entries

archaeologists

sel, its cargo and the people

information

With over 3,000 entries from the east coast taking in Louth, Meath, Dublin and Wicklow, the book has a comprehensive record of all wreck reports prior to 1945. Pictured above is an unknown wreck on Portmarnock Beach, Co Dublin.

locations.

name and a glossary of nau-

However, where precise loca-

terms

will

assist

the

Karl Brady and his team

deserve every credit for compiling this tome in a systematic

fashion

with

excellent

cross referencing to establish the facts. The inventory is part of an ongoing programme of work being undertaken by the Department

Environment,

Heritage and Local Government, aimed at quantifying Ireland's maritime heritage and creating an archive of all

recorded

incidences

wrecking around our coasts.

* See www.infomar.ie * Published by The Station-

ery Office, Shipwreck Inventory of Ireland Ð Louth, Meath, Dublin and Wicklow can be purchased directly from: Government Publications Sales Office, Sun Alliance House, Molesworth Street, Dublin 2 or by mail order from:

Government Publications, Postal Trade Section, 51 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2 or from booksellers, for 35. The first five new subscribers to Inshore Ireland will each receive a copy of Shipwreck Inventory of Ireland.

Ireland's Ocean Ð A Natural History BRENDAN CONNOLLY

T A O B E F I L R RUN FOR YOU

associated

s we walk along the

mackerel, bluefin tuna, bask-

beach and gaze out to

ing sharks, salmon, and many

sea, we see the waves,

more are all discussed. The

the horizon, and the surf as

1st June 2009

DUBLIN CITY MARATH ON 26th October 200

CORK MINI MARATHO N 27th September

2009

GREAT IRELAND RUN 6th April 2010

For more information on these or any other running events... Email: ro/ir@rnli.org.uk or Call: 1800 789 589

whales,

seals,

cannot see more than 10 to 12

mentioned. Nor are our sea-

miles Ð and that is on a clear

birds left out, including what

day.

they can tell us about climate

Yet,

the

oceans

cover

and

dolphins,

the sea meets the shore. We

turtles

are

also

change.

70.8% of the earth's surface.

DUBLIN WOMEN’S M INI MARATHON

with our impor-

tant fisheries. Herring, cod,

Imagine if the only knowl-

Special areas of conserva-

edge we had of Ireland was

tion such as Lough Hyne in

what we can see on a beach,

West

how limited our understand-

Lough,

ing of Ireland would be.

significance of the Shannon

Ireland's Ocean, Michael

Cork Co

and

Strangford

Down,

and

the

Estuary to its resident group of dolphins, are described.

and Ethna Viney explore the habitat that we only see a

Hidden kelp forests; seaweeds

fraction of, yet covers close

we can eat; cold water corals

to three-quarters of our pla-

that cover huge seamounts,

net.

and animals that look like

ocean offers us, such as oil,

plants

Irides-

gas, wind power and mining

fanworms

of the sea bed are also dis-

The initial impression of

are

revealed.

Ireland's Ocean, with its col-

cent

seaworms;

our

with

tentacles

OTHER RESOURCES

The other resources that our

would

cussed. It is clear that the

graphs and attractive cover

defy a science fiction film set

authors undertook a lot of

design, is of a well crafted

designer, and sea slugs that

research and went to great

coffee

But,

grow bizarre coloured appen-

pains

quickly, it becomes clear that

dages from their backs, all

background, as well as the

it is much more than that.

exist

future,

Ireland's Ocean is a very wide

around our shores.

illustrations,

table

photo-

book.

beneath

that

the

w a ve s

The amazing intelligence of

seas, including their geologi-

octopuses, squid and cuttle-

cal history; what the ocean

fish whose closest relatives

floor now looks like; the char-

are

acteristics of sea water; their

Starfish and sea urchins with

influence on our climates and

their five-sided rather than

why we have tides.

two-sided

bodies;

molluscs.

that wiped out an entire fish

complexity of the living soup

farm, and deep sea animals

that is the ocean. From the

who can produce their own

tiniest

light, are part of our ocean.

microscopic and

pico-

nanoplancton

Th e

bo o k

the

explain ocean

the that

* Ireland's Ocean Ð A Natural History, Michael Viney & Ethna Viney, The Collins Press, ISBN 978-1-905172-66-5, hardback 29.95.

jellyfish

The authors describe the

plancton

fully

meets our shores.

ranging introduction to our

paradoxically

ex p l or e s

the

which have such a fundamen-

wealth of fishery resources

tal influence on both sea and

that our ocean produces, and

air, to the largest animal that

also covers the history as well

ever lived Ð the blue whale.

as present-day fishery issues

The first three new subscribers to Inshore Ireland will receive a copy of Ireland's Ocean Ð A Natural History, courtesy of Collins Press.

INSHORE IRELAND

May/June 2009

OUTSIDE IRELAND

VENEZUELA

Chavez declares industrial trawling `capitalist crime', and bans it

BRIEN O'RIORDAN ICSF

ne minute after midnight on Friday March 13, industrial trawling was banned from Venezuela's territorial waters and within its EEZ when Article 23 of Venezuela's new Law on Fisheries and Aquaculture came into force. President Hugo Chavez had declared industrial trawling a ``capitalist crime'', observing that ``it destroys the flora, the plankton, the seabed and 70 to 80% of the catch is lost. It's a shame to see how millions of fish die on the deck whilst the prawns are separated for export.'' According to RubeÂn Aparicio, Regional Director in Sucre State for the Environmental Ministry (MINAB), the most important aspect of eliminating trawling is the chance it gives for the entire seabed to recover. According

to him, other benefits of the Fisheries Law, both for the authorities and for the wider community in general, include putting a stop to the smuggling of fuel and other substances undertaken by various trawlers. ``It will serve the environment and will stop smuggling by these vessels'', he stated. Venezuela's industrial trawler fleet comprises 267 vessels, 248 of which are legal and directly employ around 2,400 workers of whom some 1,200 are seafarers. Trawlers had been given 12 months notice to refit or decommission, with no derogation. So far, only about 40 applications have been received for refit and only four of these have been submitted to the acoustic testing required. Grants of around BsF 600,000 (US$280) are available for each qualifying vessel. As for the 1,200 seafarers affected by the ban, the Fisheries Institute (INSOPESCA) guarantees to find them alter-

IP R C S B U S

native employment. Most commonly, they are seeking work as artisanal fishers, taxi drivers, farmers, and as mechanics. Male workers over 60 and women workers over 50 from the trawler sector will be integrated into the national social security system and provided with retirement benefit. Those who want to continue working may do so.

FISH SHORTAGE

Meanwhile, steps are also being taken to prevent a shortfall in fish supplies; 25% of fish supplies are to be secured by ALBA, a joint venture company set up by Venezuela, Cuba, Bolivia, Dominican Republic and Nicaragua to counter the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The company's first vessels will start fishing for tuna, ``a basic item in the Venezuelan diet'', and for jack mackerel, ``which although not eaten widely is highly nutritious,'' according to INSOPESCA

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

Bimonthly Interview

Advertising:

incorporating

Aquaculture

Glenn Murphy, IMDO Pages 8-9

Ireland

Freshwater Angling

News from the

The bream dream Page 14-15

coast and inland

Marine Tourism

waterways

Once in a blue moon Monday Page 21

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

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Freshwater Focus .......... Aquaculture . . . . 10 — News . . . . 11 .... Island Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 — 19 Marine R&D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 ........ 22 — 24

Roger Cole 01 2841544 / 087 2611597 cole@inshore-ireland.com Wendy Scott (NI) (ROI 048) 91 857721 / 0044 28 91 857721

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

* To page

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LITTLE AND LARGE: artisanal fishing craft and prawn trawler in the Gulf of California Reserve, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.

President Gilberto Gimenez. Plans are also in hand to deploy 31 vessels employing around 60 crew with a capacity to catch and store up to 100 tonnes. These operations are to be linked to socialist markets selling fresh fish to promote wider fish consumption, with targets of reducing fresh fish prices by 200%.

PICTURE: Greenpeace/Alex Hofford

Gimenez also noted that 70% of national fish supplies come from the artisanal sector, and that INSOPESCA will work with them to ``assure food for the people through a socialist production system that breaks with the model of fishing as a business''. He noted that of the 25,000 artisanal fishers nationwide, only 5,500 are

involved with fishing councils and participate in creating national fishing policy. According to sources in Venezuela, firm action is now needed to regulate trawling and the use of other destructive fishing gears by the artisanal sector where such practices are widespread and largely uncontrolled.

INSHORE IRELAND May/June 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