Inshore Ireland Vol 14 nr 1 Spring 2018

www.inshore-ireland.com The Marine & Freshwater Environment Publication

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Inshore Fisheries (Heritage Licence) Bill Page13

Harbour Innovation Campus for Dún Laoghaire Pages 14-16

Spring 2018 Vol 14 Issue 1

ONLINE EDITION

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

Fishermen unite to form organisation that addresses everyday life issues Gery Flynn

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new representative organisation for the fishing industry that is being backed by the Producer Organisations has also been welcomed by key State agencies including the Marine Institute, the

SFPA and BIM which is acting as secretariat.

“The initiative to set up the National Fisheries Development Group came from within the fishing industry and was conceived by people who felt there was a need for a new organisation to help them with their day-today working lives,” Dr Peter Tyndall, the group’s chairman exclusively told Inshore Ireland.

“The NFDG is not a producer organisation and it’s not going to conflict in any way with existing organisations. It was set up by fishermen who saw the need for a body that would provide financial advice; and give advice on workers’ rights; employment law; health and pension schemes, social welfare entitlements as well as education and

Neptune, north of the Butt of Lewis in unusually calm January waters, pumps mackerel aboard.

training. A National Fishermen’s Register is also proposed,” he explained.

According to Tyndall, who took up the role a few months ago, practical topics like these are constant issues facing fishermen: “Even before I was approached, fishermen had already talked to their POs and to the National Inshore Fisheries Forum (NIFF)

and the Regional Inshore Fisheries Forums (RIFFs) who agreed there was a need for a representative group, comprising two members from each of the POs, NIFFs and RIFFs and four independent members who aren’t aligned with any PO.” »» page 9

Photo John Cunningham

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inshore ireland Spring 2018

NEWS

A wave of support for plastic-free week in Galway

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A big ‘thumbs up’ for ‘Plastic Free Week’ from Mairead and Dave Buckley who operate the Marine Institute’s Coriolis Restaurant

Our greatest national resource is our ocean

alway City Council recently invited Dr Peter Heffernan, Marine Institute CEO to take up the challenge of living ‘plastic free’ as an ambassador for it Plastic Free Week (Feb 5-11).

“I was delighted to be involved to help promote the avoidance of single-use plastics and replace plastics with alternatives as much as possible. Over 200 staff joined me in this initiative to reduce, reuse and replace plastic items where possible at work and at home.

“The meant using glass drink bottles, reusable coffee cups, trying glass food-storage containers for the fridge and freezer, as well as using plastic alternatives such as re-usable pens and pencils”.

The Plastics Free Galway campaign has been dubbed a positive instigator for raising awareness, sharing ideas and engaging with local communities to help make changes in daily behaviour using plastics.

“It’s important to highlight that up to a truck load of plastic waste finds its way into the ocean every minute of every day. This creates a huge risk. By 2050 there could be more plastic by weight than fish in the ocean unless behaviours change,” explained Dr Heffernan.

As a consequence of the campaign, the Marine Institute’s social media campaign shared ideas of how to use less plastic

locally and globally.

“We highlighted evidence of plastic pollution as deep as 3km at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean in waters west of Ireland that was taken during a recent deep water surveys using ROV Holland I. It is frightening to think that if plastic isn’t disposed of properly, it can very easily end up in the ocean, damaging marine habitats and killing marine animals,” Dr Heffernan added.

Beyond the Plastics Free Campaign, the Marine Institute is supporting Ireland’s commitment to introduce national legislation by the end of 2018 that will prohibit the sale and manufacture of certain products containing microbeads.

This includes funding and partnerships, nationally and internationally, studying the effects of plastics in the ocean.

Locally the Marine Institute has been active in making small changes. Staff have devised ideas of how to change from using nonplastic cleaning products in laboratories to finding alternatives to plastic milk containers in their restaurant and coffee stations.

“Such small steps and using our voice can create a wave of change which is needed if we want to help protect our marine environment,” Dr Heffernan said.

Marine Institute Plastic Free Week: www.facebook. com/marineinstituteireland

marine.ie

Marine Institute chief executive Peter Heffernan and canteen staff devise novel ideas of the ‘Plastic Free Week’

inshore ireland Spring 2018

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COMMENT

Fishermen’s Development Group to focus on daily issues

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he formation a few months ago of the National Fishermen’s Development Group should be seen as a positive development for the fishing industry – for a number of reasons not the least of which is that its origin is fishermen themselves and not another ‘topdown’ concept from a State agency or a government department.

NFDG chairman Dr Peter Tyndall could not have been clearer when he outlined the new organisation’s origins and aims. He said it would not be a producer group by another name, and that its work would not conflict in any way

with the existing POs whose blessing it has and without which it would not succeed.

On the contrary, the NFDG will complement the work of the POs; it will not be taking on any of the major responsibilities the POs engage in daily such as quota issues and entitlements.

It’s good to know too that key State agencies (Marine Institute, the SFPA and BIM) have welcomed its formation.

BIM is acting as secretariat and will provide financial aid to facilitate the meetings.

The NFDG will concern itself with what might be called ‘day-to-day’ personal issues that concern fishing communities such as adequate health and pension provision; education and training; atypical workers rights; the creation of a National Fishermen’s Register; tax and employment law; and

relations with the Revenue.

That said, we might well ask why it has taken until now to set up this type of representative organisation to deal with everyday issues for a modern fishing industry.

All of the issues and more deserve and require immediate attention and response; however education and training and the creation of a national fishermen’s register will not happen overnight.

Peter Tyndall has already cautioned that progress in these areas is likely to be slow, but in the end he expects the changes to be made.

Already, an accountant with professional experience in the fishing industry has advised the NFDG about the tax system and the options for choosing the self-employed or the PAYE route.

At a more technical level, the Marine Institute is already advising the group on steps that might be taken on local fishing grounds in Galway where fishermen are fearful that large numbers of gurnard – below commercial size – are eating settling prawns.

Key to the success of the NFDG will be how it communicates with its members and the general public.

Peter Tyndall has identified the need to portray a more positive image of the fishing industry that he hopes will be picked up by mainstream media which he says too often prefers sensational news.

Public support of the fishing industry must be encouraged. The National Fishermen’s Development Group might just be the tide to rise all ‘fishing’ boats.

comment

Gery Flynn

Dear Editor

I

have seen the artistic impression of the proposed permanent floating homes in Dún Laoghaire Harbour and disagree with this plan.

I would however regard the plan as desirable if the dwellings were barges that could come and go.

It seems the harbour authorities are more interested in making money out of the space than in making it a better place for the members of the public to enjoy. A harbour is for boats and Dún Laoghaire Harbour is a disgrace in that regard. It caters to the rich in the three big yacht clubs who have been given every facility over the years. I am not against that as such, but the place should be more inclusive and take better account of other people who wish to use the harbour.

The facilities for small-boat users such as anglers or day

sailors who wish to launch from trailers are almost nonexistent. The one slip that can be used at most stages of the tide near the boatyard is a joke. Its limited access has been further curtailed by an iron stanchion placed at the run-in to the slip. There is only room for one vehicle to launch a small boat or yacht and the slip during the summer is invariably cluttered by kids with small dinghies.

There is an entire corner of the coal harbour that is just covered with rock armour and could easily accommodate a new wide slip on which several vehicles could launch and also turn.

There are plenty of examples of this sort of slip in Northern Ireland in places such as Ballycastle and Bangor.

Kids and their dinghies and day launchers could all be adequately catered for and a special section of the

parking facilities could be designated for boats trailers.

Other than the private boat-lift in MGM’s premises there are no proper facilities for slipping a boat for repairs – apart that is from the antiquated trolley beside the slipway. A proper modern crane could be provided by the harbour company at a charge to boat users- if the will was there. The Carlisle Pier would be an ideal place for this with the addition of a slipway and carriage and a boat lift, along with a chandlery, maritime shops and workshops that would bring business to the harbour.

If more of the space that is wastefully occupied by swinging moorings was taken up by new marina spaces at a greatly reduced rate than at present, use of the harbour would increase greatly.

Cormac L Lowth Dublin

Looking forward to

meeting the industry

at the annual Skipper Expo March 2-3 in the Galway Bay Hotel.

Drop over to our stand in the hotel lobby.

Inshore Ireland is published by IIPL Ltd

Editor

Features Editor

Gillian Mills

Gery Flynn

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inshore ireland Spring 2018

NEWS

Abandoned pot rope behind Irish Sea Mayday

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ishermen along the east coast have reacted angrily to what they describe was a deliberate attempt to disable and endanger scallop vessels off Bray Head.

At approximately 11:00hrs on February 8, MFV Provider issued a Mayday requesting immediate assistance. Provider and three other boats were fishing for scallops roughly two miles south of the approaches to Dublin Bay when the skipper noticed excess vibration and a decrease in engine rpms.

On inspection, it was clear that the propeller had become fouled by pot rope.

Evolving hazard

Collie Costello at Balbriggan harbour with the abandoned pot rope

The situation took a more serious twist when the crew noticed a large quantity of pot rope drifting on the surface in the surrounding area. An attempt by another vessel to come to the vessel’s assistance was hampered by the rope, and the decision was taken to decline RNLI assistance because of the evolving hazardous situation.

In the three hours following the initial Mayday, the two vessels retrieved over two miles of pot rope from the water before they considered it was safe for the tow to proceed to Dún Laoghaire harbour.

Balbriggan fisherman Collie Costello and his son arrived at 1600hrs and a

diver was deployed to clear the fouled propellor.

“I noticed a pot boat around a quarter of a mile to the west heading south and slowly overtaking us and the other three scallopers.

He looked to be shooting his gear at the time and I didn’t pay much attention to him.

“Around half an hour later, Provider started to shake and I immediately thought the prop was fouled.

When I went to the stern I noticed a long string of pot rope coming from the propeller and we managed to grapple the rope on board and began to spool it onto the empty net drum.

I estimate there was over two miles of rope in total.”

Despite the best efforts of nearby fishing vessels, Costello believes not all of the rope was recovered.

“With the prevailing wind and strong tides in the area, more rope probably drifted and could endanger other unsuspecting vessels.”

Deliberate act

Asked if he thought the rope had been deliberately dumped to disrupt the scallop boats, Costello said there was no other explanation: “The rope we retrieved was set out in such a way that it can only be described as a prop fouling device. It had lengths of rope spliced into it at regular intervals and had small amounts of chain on

the ends to keep some of it just under the surface. It looks like a considerable amount of thought went into making sure it would do damage.

“It was an obvious act of thuggery and an attempt to bully and harass fishermen that are just trying to make a living. To dump that amount of rope in an area where four boats were fishing was bound to leave one or even all of us in a dangerous situation.

“We were fishing just beside the approaches to the busiest port in the country. The situation could have been so much worse, and for any fisherman or sane human to potentially put the lives and safety of fishermen and the rescue services at risk, that’s a disgusting thing to do.”

Expected follow up

The Gardaí and Marine Survey Office were notified and a thorough investigation is expected to commence.

Charges could be brought under Sections 23 and 24 of the Marine Safety Act 2005.

A proposal to introduce technical measures and to establish a seasonal closure in north Irish Sea scallop areas was put forward by the North East Regional Fishermen’s Forum (NERIFF). If it meets the approval of the NIFF, a public consultation should commence and fishermen will have the chance to air their views on how scallop fisheries inside 6nm are managed.

Presence of farmed Atlantic salmon in Galway and Mayo rivers

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report by Inland Fisheries Ireland ‘confirms’ the presence of farmed Atlantic salmon in the Western River Basin District.

Escapees were detected in Delphi, Erriff, Kylemore/ Dawros, Newport and Bunowen rivers in counties Galway and Mayo.

IFI says it has not been advised of any escapes coinciding with the detections through the licensing authority (Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine), which IFI says is a condition of the aquaculture licence.

Up to five hundred escaped farmed salmon may have entered western salmon rivers during August/ September last year, the report says.

In October 2017, the board

of IFI issued the following statement: ‘Inland Fisheries Ireland has been charged with the protection of wild Atlantic salmon and continues to have concerns regarding the impacts of fish farms on Ireland’s precious wild fish.

The licencing regime and best management practice should provide assurance to the State that controls are in place that safeguard our heritage.

‘This does not appear to be the case in this instance.

Inland Fisheries Ireland supports sustainable fish farming but cautions against the renewal and/or award of licences where conditions are not being adhered to.

The Board recommends immediate strict enforcement and audit of existing licence conditions to ensure compliance and ultimately a

sustainable resource for all.’

While a small number of farmed salmon spawning in a catchment may not have a detectable long-term effect on the wild salmon population, repeated escapes of large numbers of farmed fish have the “potential to seriously damage vulnerable salmon populations,” says Dr Cathal Gallagher, head of research and development.

“The large number of escaped farmed salmon entering into these rivers, with a high proportion of males likely to be sexually mature, presents a potential threat to local wild salmon populations.”

IFI will continue to monitor the situation and “may need to conduct longer-term genetic studies on the impact of the presence of these farmed salmon.”

Ashleagh Falls, Leenane, on the River Erriff

inshore ireland Spring 2018

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NEWS

Ministerial Development visit to Marine plans for Dún Laoghaire Harbour Institute

M

ichael Creed, Minister for Agriculture Food and the Marine, recently visited the Marine Institute in Galway to observe cutting edge technology developed for marine research.

The new technology captures high quality mosaic images of nephrops, which are now the most valuable species landed by Irish vessels, valued at €60m in 2016.

During his visit, Minister Creed was also briefed on the institute’s integrated marine science programmes using the national research vessels, RV Celtic Explorer and RV Celtic Voyager.

Minister Creed in conversation with Jennifer Doyle, Rosemarie Butler and Mick Gillooly.

Photo Andrew Downes, xposure

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re-procurement ‘market consultations’ are underway in Dún Laoghaire Harbour on regenerating the historic Carlisle Pier and for a National Water Sports Centre on the west side of the harbour.

Written expressions of interest are invited from parties with ‘relevant expertise, experience and resources’ on ‘sensitive ideas’ for the pier and associated lands of circa 1.1 hectares incorporating the existing rail sheds that will bring ‘significant cultural, social, recreational and economic benefits’ to the town as a whole.

Deadline: March 2, 2018; Email only to gerrydunne@ dlharbour.ie Expressions of interest and an outline proposal are also sought for a National Water Sports Centre at Trader’s Wharf.

According to Dún Laoghaire Harbour Company, this multi-discipline centre could cater for activities that include sailing/sail training; powerboat/ powerboat training; diving; kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and dragon boating; rowing; windsurfing, wakeboarding

and water skiing.

Parties with ‘relevant expertise, experience and resources’ interested in cooperating with the harbour company are invited to respond.

Deadline: 1700hrs, March 13, 2018. Email only to gerrydunne@dlharbour.ie

BIM Schedule March/April 2018

Skipper Full Certificate of Competency1 GMDSS Restricted Operators Certificate1 – 09 April-08 June 2018, NFC Greencastle – 09 April-13 June 2018, NFC Castletownbere

Enhanced Safety Training Seaweed On-growing QQI Award (Minor) – 05 March, NFC Greencastle Level 5 – 07 March, NFC Castletownbere – 16-27 April, NFC Castletownbere

Navigation Control Course (Fishing)1 – 05-15 June, NFC Castletownbere – 25 June-06 July, NFC Greencastle

Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (3 Day) STCW-95

Passenger Boat Proficiency – 12-15 February, Portmagee, Co. Kerry CTU1 – 25-29 June, NFC Greencastle

GMDSS General Operators Certificate1 – 21 May-01 June, NFC Greencastle – 16-27 April, NFC Castletownbere

GMDSS Short Range Radio Proficiency Module 1 & 21 – 12-14 March, NFC Greencastle 1

Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport Certificate of Competency

www.bim.ie

– 09 March, Ballycotton CTU2 – 30 April, NFC Greencastle – 09 May, NFC Castletownbere

– 10-12 April, NFC Castletownbere – 10-12 April, NFC Greencastle – 16-18 April, NFC Greencastle – 05-07 June, NFC Greencastle

Introduction to Fish Quality Assessment Training Course

Medical First Aid Aboard Ship STCW-95 – 05-09 April, NFC Castletownbere – 05-06 April, NFC Greencastle – 08-10 May, NFC Greencastle

Three Day Basic Safety Training – 06-08 March, Ballycotton CTU2 – 06-08 March, NFC Greencastle – 13-15 March, NFC Castletownbere – 27-29 March, Rossaveal CTU1 – 03-05 April, NFC Castletownbere – 24-26 April, NFC Greencastle – 15-17 May, NFC Greencastle – 22-24 May, NFC Castletownbere

Advanced Fire Fighting (5 day) – 18-22 June, NFC Greencastle – 18-22 June, NFC Castletownbere

– 21-22 February, Reid’s Fish Market, Howth 01 2144185

NFC Greencastle +353 74 938 1068/938 1099 NFC Castletownbere +353 27 71230 CTU 1 +353 87 6837134/86 385 6885

CTU 2 +353 87 233 4620/86 385 6885 Please contact the CTU instructor for final confirmation of the course schedule.

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inshore ireland Spring 2018

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.

Ireland is failing to protect from fluoride intoxication Declan Waugh*

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ublished studies by medical researchers in the UK and Spain indicate that the highest fluoride levels by far found in beers consumed in Europe are in Irish branded products.

These findings are disturbing, not least because they present yet another form of uncontrolled exposure to fluoride from contamination of the food chain due to mandatory water fluoridation in Ireland.

Water and beer however are not the main dietary sources of fluoride in the Irish population — the main source is tea.

Dietary fluoride

Since the 1930s, tea has been acknowledged as a major source of dietary fluoride. In 2006, the USA National Research Council (NRC) of the National Academies of Science (NAS) in their review of fluoride in drinking water, noted that just half a cup of brewed tea with a fluoride concentration of 3.3 mg/L equals the total

background intake of fluoride from all other food sources.

Over 30 years ago, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in the UK reported that tea infusions in England contained fluoride concentrations far higher than the maximum level permitted in drinking water, and observed that tea was the main source of dietary fluoride exposure in the UK population.

Since then, many similar studies conducted in the UK have reported extremely high fluoride levels in tea products.

Indeed, many commercial brands of tea bags include up to 9 mg/L of fluoride. Thus, an average tea drinker who consumes four cups of tea a day can significantly exceed the tolerable intake of fluoride from tea consumption alone.

Paradoxically, when Ireland commenced water fluoridation, tea was not even considered by the Department of Health. In 1963, per capita consumption of tea was approximately 4.54kg per person per year, and 3.43kg per year in 2003.

Most people are aware that the Irish are serious tea drinkers but few realise we

are the highest per capita tea drinkers in the world and have been for almost a century.

The Irish State and its institutions in their enthusiasm to promote and protect the policy of mandatory water fluoridation have demonstrated an astonishing display seemingly intended or otherwise complacency of not addressing cumulative exposures to fluoride and dietary exposure to fluoride from tea consumption in Ireland.

In 2013 I wrote to the Minister for Health and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland addressing this concern. But along with many other communications, my correspondence was largely ignored.

In response to this lack of action, I undertook along with academics in the USA and Canada, the very first risk assessment of fluoride intake from tea in Ireland.

The study was published in an international peer-reviewed public health journal in 2016.

As with the UK studies, our data shows that tea products in Ireland also contain excessive

concentration of fluoride.

Tea consumption in Ireland however is significantly higher than the UK, and all public water supplies are artificially fluoridated compared to about 6% in the UK.

Fluoride intoxication

Given Ireland has both the highest per capita consumption of tea and mandatory water fluoridation, it is justifiable to ask why no risk assessment has ever been undertaken by the State or its institutions since water fluoridation commenced in 1964, and why there has been no biomonitoring of the general population to accurately establish the longterm exposure to fluoride and total body burden in the general population.

The answer simply is that the State seemingly does not want the public to know, as that would highlight its negligence in protecting the public from chronic fluoride intoxication.

To highlight this apparent indifference, I submitted yet another correspondence to the Irish Authorities in December 2017. Unlike my

other submissions, this one was co-signed by many respected academics, scientists, medical doctors, midwives, neurologists, psychologists, biochemists, molecular and cell biologists, toxicologists, nutritionists and experts in paediatric medicine; as well as historians, poets, educationists, songwriters, musicians, actors, filmmakers as well as hundreds of citizens and parents across the length and breadth of Ireland.

This submission follows yet another I submitted in May 2016 where I sought specific declarations from the Irish State regarding the safety of fluoridated water; details on risk assessments undertaken and information regarding cumulative exposures to fluoride.

Eighteen months on I still haven’t received a response to this correspondence. *Declan Waugh works freelance in the field of environmental science, due diligence and risk assessment: www. enviro.com. The Department of Health and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland were invited to respond but had not done so as Inshore Ireland went to press.

Food from the Oceans: Report charts a way forward Gery Flynn

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n EU Commission report finds that given the nutritional needs of a growing population along with over-stretched land-based resources, it is no longer acceptable that the ocean, which accounts for half the planet’s biological production, can go on contributing a relatively small proportion of human food: 2% of the daily per capita calorie intake and 15% of animal protein intake.

Food from the Oceans – scientific opinion number 3/2017 was compiled by the Scientific Advice Mechanism (SAM), a Commission think-tank that replaced the office of the Chief Scientific Officer abolished in November 2014.

Questions asked

SAM’s High-level Group (HLG) comprising six prominent scientists provide the Commission with independent scientific advice on specific policy issues. This report addresses the question: how can more food and biomass be obtained from the oceans in a way that does not deprive future generations of their benefits?

It notes that in the developing world, fish and other aquatic species account for a significantly higher proportion of food than in the developed world, and are an essential source of nutrients for billions of people.

And in line with the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, ocean-derived protein should play an increasingly important role, globally.

Any threats to this food supply from declining fish stocks and underdeveloped mariculture should be of global concern, it states.

The authors observe that the dietary preferences of developing countries tend to favour less healthy and less eco-efficient habits of the developed world – as is the tendency to view food security and nutrition issues largely through the lens of agriculture, with fisheries and mariculture often treated marginally.

‘The value of seafood is at present not properly understood, protected or integrated into global food security and nutrition policy considerations.

Such a blind spot is all the more worrying in view of the global need for 70% more protein by 2050’, the report says.

Development of traditional and newer forms of mariculture e.g. lower trophic levels of farmed species and feed sources

in particular, is recommended.

‘Given their huge potential and resource efficiency, is particularly attractive from both size and sustainability points of view. Such developments could also help to put traditional fisheries and potential future lower-trophic wild capture onto a sustainable footing’, the report declares.

Crucial public policies

For such an approach to succeed however the authors say that public policies are crucial as they determine the conditions that either permit or forbid certain ocean-based activities.

These conditions also shape the market and enable the harvesting of such species so that they become a significant rather than marginal proportion of food for human consumption.

As for Europe’s role in marine food production, the report says it will depend on the extent to which both its fishing and mariculture activities become leading sustainable sectors globally.

And with this goal in mind, it sees the need for a ‘resolution mechanism’ to resolve what it calls the ‘important social and ecological conflicts’ that have to be resolved.

‘This requires fair and fully-inclusive decision and

planning processes and sustained technical progress as well as drawing on the continent’s strong innovation and investment capacities.

Furthermore, such progress in the EU would create jobs and growth and reinforce

regional cohesion’, it states.

It also means acknowledging the fact that if more food from the ocean is required to meet the need of present and future generations, local changes in biodiversity will be required, similar to agriculture.

Main recommendations: »»mainstream a “food from the ocean” paradigm of responsible culture and capture into broad EU and global systems-level policy agendas. This includes integrating aspects of EU fisheries and mariculture policy into a food systems framework, and prioritising the food-generating capacity of the ocean in the EU’s Integrated Maritime Policy as well as in EU contributions to the European Consensus for Development and to international policy initiatives such as the UN’s Agenda 2030 »»develop mariculture in Europe to a higher and more strategic level via a comprehensive, concerted policy framework. This includes issuing guidance on the inclusion of mariculture requirements in the implementation of the 2014 EU Directive on Marine Spatial Planning and extending technological cooperation to mariculture under sustainable fisheries partnership agreements (SFPAs) between the EU and southern partner countries. »»continue to improve implementation and enforcement of existing regulations and use of best practice for sustaining wild capture – broadening as necessary the regulatory toolbox, inter alia , to ensure that all bycatch is recorded and landed, and optimising and fully enforcing the legal rules that facilitate or constrain the harvesting of food from the ocean »»facilitate policy change – by optimal use of the Open Method of Coordination and initiatives such as the Blue Bioeconomy Forum, to support identification and deployment of best practice, stakeholder dialogue and the acquiring of social license to operate »»future-proof policy and extend knowledge – by further developing the Common Fisheries Policy’s science advice system; addressing key knowledge gaps and uncertainties identified in this Opinion and facilitating scientifically-motivated pilot fishing of as-yet unexploited lower trophic-level species

inshore ireland Spring 2018

7

FRESHWATER Focus

Freshwater aquaculture research project Gery Flynn

T

he European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMMF) is backing research at NUI Galway and Athlone Institute of Technology to improve production efficiencies and the management of farmed fish at freshwater

sites in Ireland.

‘EcoAqua’ aims to test and optimise innovative technologies and processes developed through the linked MOREFISH project.

Stakeholder needs

Led by Dr Eoghan Clifford, NUI Galway, and Professor Neil Rowan, Athlone Institute of Technology, with support from BIM’s

technical aquaculture team, ECOAQUA will address some of the key needs identified by industry and aquaculture stakeholders including: »» analysing the environmental and energy performance of three freshwater aquaculture sites by sampling and remote online monitoring of water parameters »» facilitating the re-use of the treated water, thereby

The angling paradox Brendan Connolly

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ngling is a curious game. It’s winter, and a time for anglers to reflect on their favourite hobby.

It is a gripping and, at times, an all-consuming sport. It appeals to an inner resonance embedded deep in the angler’s psyche.

Passing by any river, anglers automatically register the salmon lies and the fish holding pools. Driving by any lake, a quick glance assesses the strength and direction of the wind. Gazing out to sea, they scan for diving birds before they know they are doing it.

Whenever an angler sees water fishing comes to mind.

Strange addition

Despite this ingrained drive, catching fish on rod and line is, in fact, highly inefficient.

Angling is supposed to be about catching fish, but virtually any other method of catching fish is more efficient than using a rod and line.

Some fisheries go even further and limit rod and line fishing to one type only; for example flyfishing-only salmon and trout fisheries.

Strangely, these fisheries are commonly seen as being of superior quality. It seems the more restrictions that are put in an angler’s way, the greater the angler strives to catch fish. The more difficult it is to catch a fish, the greater the prestige of the catch.

In many aspects of life, the more challenging your

goal, the more consciously or subconsciously it is perceived as desirable. In daily life, this psychological mechanism can spur us on to achieve more, greater, and better things.

But in the case of angling, the net effect of fishing with rod and line and its various rules is that it is more difficult to catch fish. Yet anglers find that what is a peculiarly ineffective way of fishing, is strangely addictive.

Mackerel fishing is exciting and rewarding; it marks the start of the summer season, with the sunlight penetrating azure seas. The silver flash of the mackerel as they dash back and forth has an exotic quality all its own. The rapidity with which a bucketfull of mackerel can be caught gives a great feeling of the rich abundance of the sea.

Yet, most anglers rate salmon and trout fishing as superior to mackerel fishing. To catch six trout is a very good day’s fishing, yet catching six mackerel in under a minute is a regular occurance.

As for salmon fishing, to catch six fish in a week is long remembered to be recalled for years. In fact, some anglers may not catch any salmon for years but will nevertheless persist with salmon angling.

The more difficult it is to catch a species, the more likely it is to be rated highly.

Psychology

An area of psychology that deals with behaviour and its reward or reinforcement, is called Operant Conditioning.

The American psychologist B.F. Skinner pioneered

this area between the 1940s and 1960s.

The research looked at how certain animals, among them rats and pigeons, responded to a reward such as food after they exhibited a certain behaviour such as moving or pecking at a lever or switch.

Surprisingly, the highest level or behaviour frequency was not generated by rewarding a constant or fixed number of times of moving the lever, but when the reward was given following an average of a certain number of times that the lever was moved.

So, if a rat was given a food pellet every fifth time it pressed the lever, it did not press the lever as often as when it was given food on average every fifth time.

An average of every fifth time means that it could get a pellet after just one press, and then after nine presses, followed by after seven presses, then followed by after three presses, all of these averaging out at five presses per piece of food over time.

This is the schedule of pay-out operated by gambling slot machines, which elicits a high response rate from us human beings. This is also the “schedule of reinforcement” or how often we catch fish that anglers tend to experience when fishing.

An angler may catch fish the first day that he or she goes out, or they may not. But, while anglers do not necessarily expect to catch fish every day they go out, the more often you go fishing, the more fish you are likely to catch.

It seems that it is this likelihood, as opposed to certainty, that results in anglers fishing persistently.

Fishing is a form of hunting, and the instinct to hunt is a basic human inclination.

Perhaps our ancestors found that hunting was rewarded by a capture on a certain number of times on average rather than every time. This may be how our minds work, and why we go fishing as often as we do.

reducing the volumes of extracted and discharged waters »» enabling the industry to meet stringent environmental regulation while increasing production in a sustainable and costeffective manner »» piloting technological innovations with industry to ensure the research is easily and rapidly transferrable to the aquaculture sector »» ensuring technological innovations and research results can be leveraged to enable the sustainable growth of this highpotential sector. »» enable the industry to leverage the scientific outputs from the project to communicate with government, policymakers and regulators and the public Announcing the project, Dr Clifford said that by offering significant economic benefits, aquaculture has the potential to address food security concerns worldwide.

He pointed out however that while the sector in Ireland has remained “relatively stagnant” it has significant potential to grow and develop export markets and create employment in rural areas.

“This research has the potential to introduce innovative monitoring practices and technologies that can enhance the value and sustainability of Irish and European fish stock densities while ensuring the environmental sustainability of

the sector. These developments are strongly aligned with Ireland’s FoodWise2025 policy that seeks to grow food exports by 85% to €19 billion by 2025”, he said.

Ireland currently ranks fifth in value and seventh in volume, in terms of high value fish species, and exports support approximately 2,000 jobs.

High potential

Professor Neil Rowan described the ECOAQUA project as an “exciting and cross-cutting project that will model and profile the global performance of pilot freshwater aquaculture farms which will ensure that high potential interventions are easily transferable to the industry sector ensuring the intensive sustainability and viability of this industry.”

ECOAQUA project manager Alan Kennedy said the project would improve the water quality of freshwater farms “through the incorporation of water treatment technologies and energy reduction interventions into existing flow through farms that will also enable seamless transitions to next-generation production formats.”

‘ECOAQUA’ is administered by BIM through the ‘Knowledge Gateway Scheme’ on behalf of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and is co-financed by Ireland’s EU Structural Fund Programme (ESIP 2014 – 2020) and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund.

MOREFISH MOREFISH is a Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), multidisciplinary aquaculture project that develops and tests new innovative technologies and novel processes to significantly improve production management and efficiencies at inland aquaculture sites.

The project addresses critically important needs identified by end-users including advanced aeration, efficient production management and benchmarking, and deployment of next-generation pulsed light disinfection technologies.

These innovations will have key impacts including: (i) enhance production efficiency and sustainability, (

(ii) reducing environmental impacts of aquaculture production and (iii) improved fish health and reduced finfish diseases/mortalities in rearing systems due to improved operating conditions.

The project brings together a critical mass of engineering and scientific expertise, industry stakeholders and policy-makers, commercial operators and international experts. Visit: www.morefish.ie

An innovative fish farming system in Co. Sligo (Keywater Fisheries Ltd and BIM).

Photos ECOAQUA

8

inshore ireland Spring 2018

Fisheries

European Parliament favours ban of electric pulse fishing in European waters

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he Irish Islands Marine Resource Organisation (IIMRO) has welcomed a vote in the European Parliament prohibiting the use of electric pulse fishing in European waters. The vote was carried by 402:232.

IIMRO has acknowledged the support of MEPs from across Europe, and particularly the Irish members, ‘who were instrumental in delivering a stop to the destructive practice of electric pulse trawling’.

The technology was

introduced against explicit EU scientific advice under the pretence of a ‘scientific’ fishery.

‘Despite first-hand accounts of the devastation caused to fish stocks from fellow small-scale fishers in areas where electric pulse fishing is used, the EU

Commission and sectors of the industrial fleet proposed to expand its use to all areas of Europe,’ says IIMRO. Chair of IIMRO Jerry Early stated after the vote: “We are heartened by the vote to ban electric trawling in the EU, like the Chinese government ban

in 2001. After looking at the evidence and speaking to our colleagues in the Low Impact Fishers of Europe (LIFE) it was obvious this was going to cause huge damage to fisheries if rolled out to the rest of Europe, the islands in particular,” he said.

Views of the Pulse Trawl International Science Advisory Committee David Reid, Marine Institute

P

ulse trawling has attracted considerable controversy recently running up to the debate in the European Parliament. It is a fishing technique to catch flatfish, in particular sole, using electrical stimulation that induces a cramp response in the fish, allowing them to be caught with reduced contact of the gear with the seabed.

The approach is claimed to reduce fuel use as well as impacts on the seafloor and to potentially increase selectivity, and reduce discarding.

Debate has focused on the possible impacts of pulse trawling on the ecosystem, and other species. The main question however should be whether the environmental impacts are greater or less than those of beam trawls with tickler chains that it could replace.

This means that we need research to illustrate the pros and cons of the two types of gear that can inform the debate with robust scientific data.

The need to obtain this data was the basis for the ongoing project carried out by academic institutes in the Netherlands to provide a scientific basis to assess the consequences of transitioning from beam trawling to pulse trawling on the ecosystem

regarding bycatch, benthos, ecosystem functioning, and sustainable exploitation.

The project has four main elements. Firstly, the scientists set out to study the impact of electric stimulation on a range of marine organisms. It aims to use a combination of controlled laboratory studies and field observations on board trawlers to determine how fish and other animals interact with the electric field of the pulse trawl.

Some organisms have been shown to be damaged by exposure to the electrical field, and this will be quantified and modelled along with work on the precise nature of the electrical field in the open sea, and then compared to the numbers damaged in regular tickler chain beam trawls.

They will consider both the target fish and other fish in the community, particularly electrically sensitive species such as sharks and rays. It will also examine the effects on invertebrate species such as whelks, starfish, worms etc.

Secondly, the research focuses on the effect of pulse fishing on the benthic ecosystem and ecosystem services (biogeochemical cycling e.g. nutrients and oxygen) provided by sediment and its fauna. This allows study of the process of recycling nutrients from sediments to the water column which helps to promote production of phytoplankton etc.

Thirdly, the researchers will use a well-tested mathematical model of the fishery to pull

this work together and to simulate what the outcomes of a switch to pulse trawling from beam trawling would be expected to look like.

This will include whether pulse fishing could exploit a wider range of habitats.

It will also look at whether the aggregate ecosystem impacts would increase or decrease and look at other aspects such as likely changes in discard rates, fuel consumption and economic sustainability.

Preliminary results suggest that the pulse trawl does not disturb the seabed as much as the beam trawl and tickler gear. Average seabed penetration by the pulse trawl was around 2cm compared with 5cm for the beam trawl. The pulse trawl is also towed slower at around 5 knots as opposed to the 7 knots of the beam trawl.

Together these suggest a roughly 50% reduction in the seafloor impact of the pulse gear. Other preliminary results indicate a reduction in discards of undersized fish, and of non-target benthic organisms. Some species seem to be more prone to injury e.g. cod and gurnards, while others appear not to be affected.

Probably the most important point is not that pulse trawl may impact the marine ecosystem, as all trawls do, but asks whether the impact is greater or less than by the beam trawls it is intended to replace We need to carry out robust scientific research to determine this, after which it will be possible to make an informed choice about the value of this new gear, and whether we might wish to use it.

inshore ireland Spring 2018

9

Fisheries

Trudy Mc Intyre, Dunmore East »» from page 1

Progress

Although up and running for only a few months, the NFDG has already held several meetings to discuss ways of introducing group health and pension schemes, seen as particularly critical for many of the self-employed fishermen who may not have made sufficient provision for health or retirement.

“We’ll be inviting experts to talk to us about group pension and health schemes,” Tyndall added.

While optimistic for the outcome of these discussions, Tyndall says they will be cautious and inclusive in their approach and will be “relying on feedback from members” before proposing recommendations.

“The idea now is to get members feedback before progressing any further. If we get agreement from the POs and individual fishermen, the hope is that everyone will then get on board and that the best deals possible for our members can be secured.”

Nevertheless, he knows the process might not be straightforward: “There are many links in the chain, and there’ll be a lot of negotiating. None of it will be straightforward, and there’ll be a good bit of toing and froing so I expect progress to be quite slow at times. But I think it’s worth a go because there is a real need in the industry for these schemes.”

Media image

According to Tyndall,

another key role will to be to promote the image of Ireland’s fishing industry which he believes is sometimes misunderstood by the mainstream media: “Unfortunately, it seems to be only negative stories that grab media attention.

We want to portray a more positive image of the entire fishing sector and have approached a film maker with the idea of making some short, positive movies about the Ireland’s fishing industry. We have a couple of subjects and themes in mind we believe will be not only relevant to fishermen but also to the wider public.”

He rejects the suggestion that such an organisation might be seen as adding just another layer of complexity and would complicate the work of the POs. “Definitely not. We only want to complement the work of the producer organisations. This new group will not take on any of the major responsibilities that are clearly their area of work, such as quota issues or entitlements – the big issues that the industry has to fight for continuously.

“These are and will remain the remit of the POs; this group won’t be overlapping in that regard. Nevertheless, we are going to need the support of the POs for the NFDG to work.”

Education and training

He also sees the promotion of work-related education and training

as an important area of involvement for the NFDG: “We would like to see a proper apprenticeshiptype structure in place — a cadetship system where young people interested in fishing could take specific school subjects and then spend time at sea. A mentor would also take the young fisherperson under their wing and be responsible for their tuition until they qualify.

“BIM envisages a fishing industry where people will have relevant qualifications that would also be interchangeable within the seafood industry.

For example, a skipper might want to go on to do a BSc or even an MSc and in that way the industry will accrue a range of additional skills. Recognised skills like these would also allow people to change careers within the wider seafood industry as well.”

The very nature of fishing means it will sometimes be difficult to gather fishermen together for meetings so communication is going to be important, Tyndall adds: “We’ve asked each member to have a substitute at our meetings if the designated person cannot attend.

We’re now setting up the website and once that’s set up and running, the minutes from all NFDG meetings will be available.

All of the information will be freely available; there’ll be nothing secretive in any way. Everything will be totally transparent.”

S

itting here in front of the computer on another cold, windy and wet night, thinking about when the boat will next go out and how long till payday, I guess I’m not alone in these thoughts. I imagine this topic is on the lips of all inshore fishermen and their families at this time of year, every year.

This past winter has seen hurricane-force weather conditions and storm after storm, not unlike 2014.

Inshore fishermen only operate in small vessels and find it nearly impossible to bring ashore hundreds of pots in a very short space of time when sudden weather warning are issued, despite what many non-fishing people may think.

‘Fishermen get ‘considerable periods of advance warning from Met Éireann’ is widely reported in the media!’ This is simply not true.

It’s sad to think that this is also the reaction the industry got when seeking assistance in circumstances beyond their control.

Help when needed If fishermen had brought their gear ashore in the second week of October when the hurricane had hit, who was going to subsidise the industry to keep a wage in the family homes and food on the table until the end of January?

Are we to blame for our gear losses? Or are we guilty of trying to stay ‘afloat’ with little or no other options of an income?

Fishermen support stock conservation and put measures in place in co-operation with the department and the BIM, even at a financial loss to their annual income.

We all need to do our part, but who conserves the fishing communities? Who has studied the socio-economic impact these measures are having on fishing families?

We don’t want handouts; we want help when it’s needed. It’s been four years since the weather affected the industry so badly!

Cooperation needs to be not only between the industry and State bodies, but also between the industry itself. We all need to make a living from the sea and we all need to work together and communicate, to make this happen as smoothly as possible.

I recently heard reports about prop fouling of fishing vessels; reports that disturbingly call this a ‘deliberate act’. This cannot be tolerated. Similarly, we have had issues of static gear being towed by pelagic vessels in areas that are operated all year-around by small inshore operators.

Communication could have saved many a sleepless night for these inshore vessel owners. Responsibility needs to be taken for gear losses; one tow in these areas could potentially wipe out a small-scale operator.

Large vessels going into areas where inshore vessels are likely to be operating need to make phone calls or in some circumstances take phone calls so that gear readings can be taken or given.

10 inshore ireland Spring 2018

Fisheries

Funding to support marine projects in coastal communities Applications are invited from the seven nationwide fisheries local action group areas for funding under the 2018FLAGs programme organised by BIM with the objective to assist community-led development in fishing and aquaculture dependant coastal communities.

Jim JimO’Toole, O’Toole, BIM executive BIM chief chief executive atat the nationwide nationwide rollout ofof the rollout the FLAGs FLAGs programme the programme

I

n 2017, FLAG boards approved 190 projects that delivered more than €3m in total investment.

Projects included seafood enterprises; community initiatives; marine tourism; training and infrastructure improvements.

Proposals must be consistent with the FLAG Local Development Strategy for the area in question and address one or more of the following themes: • adding value to fishery and aquaculture products • creating/maintaining jobs in coastal areas • promoting innovation in fisheries and aquaculture

• supporting diversification within coastal communities • lifelong learning; attracting young people into fisheries; aquaculture and marine-related careers and activities

• promoting social wellbeing and cultural heritage in fisheries and aquaculture areas • promoting best environmental practices • strengthening the role and governance of

fisheries communities in local development Specific priorities have been developed from these themes for each FLAG area and applicants are advised to consult the relevant FLAG strategy

for the specific priorities for their area. It is also highly recommended that projects are discussed in advance with the local FLAG Coordinator.Project evaluations will be carried out on a quarterly basis.

Special status for island fishermen sought by offshore communities Gillian Mills

I

sland communities believe they are a step closer to being allowed fish quota species on a seasonal basis, just as their ancestors did over generations, following the second stage Dáil debate of the Island Fisheries

(Heritage Licence) Bill in early February.

According to the Irish Islands Marine Resource Organisation (IIMRO) the development, if it passes through all stages and is written into legislation, means that Ireland’s 30 offshore islands will be allowed to use low impact fishing gear and fish in a sustainable way.

The move will also help

Arranmore Island fishing vessels at anchor with Glen Head in the distance. © Mike Glynn

non-quota species such as crab and lobster recover, which are currently fished all year round.

Recognition of offshore islands is at the heart of the Common Fisheries Policy (2012) which states: ‘Small offshore islands which are dependent on fishing should, where appropriate, be especially recognised and supported in order to enable them to survive and prosper’.

Jerry Early, Chairperson of IIMRO, said the introduction of measures to help return fishing opportunities to island fishers “won’t come a minute too soon for communities under pressure”.

Fishing is an inherent part of island culture and the IMMRO has been working to address shortcomings in the current system for over ten years.

“These measures will be cost neutral to the exchequer and will go a long way to help island communities survive and prosper,” he said.

“It’s more important than ever before for communities like ours

to be able to be self-sufficient and to create employment opportunities.

“Allowing us to fish and responsibly use natural resources around us will keep our community, and communities like ours all over Ireland, alive.

It’s so badly needed so I hope our politicians will step up to the plate and get this over the line.”

Background The Island Heritage Licence Bill was initiated by Donegal Sinn Fein TD Pearse Doherty in support of fishermen from Arranmore Island in his constituency of Donegal along with party colleagues Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim) and Martin Ferris (Kerry), following recommendations in a 2014 cross-party Oireachtas report to benefit 30 island communities.

In a vote on February 1, the Bill was supported by Fianna Fáil, the Green Party, Labour and Independent TDs. “We’re delighted that this has

gained the support of all of the opposition parties and groups and we look forward to the opportunity to work with all parties at Dáil Committee stage to ensure we bring the best Bill possible forward for introduction into legislation,” Jerry Early added.

IIMRO met extensively with elected representatives and EU commission officials who gave assurance that measures addressed in the Heritage Licence Bill “meet all criteria within the Common Fisheries Policy, particularly Article 17,” he said.

This Bill is the first time that recognition for the islands will be formalised in Irish law by allowing island-based fishers fair access to the fishery resource (fishing opportunities) in the inshore waters around their communities.

Successful implementation will allow the island heritage model to be used as a template for the wider inshore sector in Ireland and across Europe, contends IIMRO.

inshore ireland Spring 2018 11

Fisheries

Call for under 15m vessels to be included in atypical worker permission scheme

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»» Islands continued

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nshore Ireland invited DAFM to clarify why they believe the Bill is not compatible with EU law which was mentioned during the Dáil debate: ‘The Island Fisheries (Heritage Licence) Bill 2017 is a Private Members Bill introduced to the Oireachtas in July 2017. The Bill proposes to create a system of licences for individual island fishermen. However, the proposed system in the Bill cannot be divorced from the EU Common Fisheries Policy requirement to licence each commercial sea fishing boat.

‘Under EU Regulation, every commercial sea-fishing boat needs to have a licence, held by the owner of the boat, and in accordance with the Common Fisheries Policy, every Member State must manage the size and scale (capacity) of its fishing fleet.

‘Fishing capacity in Ireland, in the form of gross tonnage and engine power, is a privately owned, tradable asset that, with certain exceptions, may be sold, traded or realised as a financial asset on the tonnage market. To licence a sea-fishing boat, capacity must be provided by the applicant as part of the licensing process.

‘It is important to point out that

the existing sea-fishing boat licensing legislation and procedures are available to and apply to islanders engaged in commercial sea-fishing.

Island fishermen therefore already have access to a licensing regime which recognises their commercial sea-fishing activities and their right to earn a living from the sea, on the same basis as others in the fishing industry.

‘The existing system is already established in national legislation and reflects EU requirements under the Common Fisheries Policy for each Member State to licence all commercial sea-fishing boats, small scale or otherwise. More information on the current system is available on the Department’s website.

‘The Bill sets out its scope in relation to Small Scale Coastal Fishing (SSCF), which is fishing by vessels of less than 12m overall length with non-towed gear. SSCF is a feature of fishing in many of the ports and harbours around the Irish coast, not just the offshore islands. SSCF is a commercial activity from which a livelihood is derived. Quotas for species which can be obtained using SSCF gear (such as mackerel and herring) already have set-a-side allocations for the inshore (including SSCF) fishing sector.

‘In terms of supports for fisheries and seafood production, the Minister has launched a range of

single Minister / government department should be given overall responsibility for coordinating the oversight of the fishing industry, according to a new report by the Joint Committee on Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Report on the situation of non-EEA crew in the Irish Fishing Fleet under the Atypical Worker Permission Scheme.

Committee Chair, Mary Butler TD, said the Committee had concerns “for some time” about the situation of crew members from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) working in Irish fishing fleets under the Atypical Worker Permission Scheme introduced in February 15, 2017.

“As such, we decided to conduct a series of hearings in order to discuss the matter due to the fact that there have been concerns that the permit scheme is being flouted by some trawler owners.”

The Committee is recommending that vessels under 15 metres should be included in the scheme in order to ensure that illegal migrants are not being transferred to smaller vessels.

“Crucially, we are calling for a single minister/ department to oversee the fishing industry as it is clear

that the current situation where responsibility for the sector is spread over a number of departments and agencies is not satisfactory,” she add.

During the course of our hearings, the Committee heard “harrowing stories” about the conditions in which some migrant fishermen work.

“We cannot allow exploitation of workers in any industry and undocumented workers are particularly vulnerable.

The Irish fishing industry is a proud one, respected internationally, and has many good and fair employers.

“The actions of some unscrupulous employers cannot be allowed to damage this vital industry and to flout safety, employment and immigration regulations.

We are recommending that common-sense measures be put in place, such as interpreters and a simplification of the permit process.”

A review of the Marine Survey Office needs to be undertaken to ensure it has sufficient resources and legislative basis to fulfil its functions and allow it to cooperate fully with other State bodies, she added.

“We accept that trawler owners are under substantial pressure due to overfishing and competition over quotas.

More must be done to support Irish fishing, but we cannot

allow a situation where some people try to protect profits by cutting labour costs.

“We will be sending this report to the ministers with responsibility for various areas of policy in relation to this issue, asking them to consider its recommendations as a matter of urgency,” deputy Butler said.

Key recommendations include: »» vessels under 15 metres be included in the atypical worker permission scheme »» simplification of the permit process so that applications can be made directly to a central registry that is open to public inspection and that a PPS number is attached to each permit »» single minister/government department should be given overall responsibility for the fishing industry.

This would ensure direct ministerial responsibility for the coordination of Department and agency action in the industry. This Department would ensure the enforcement of the State’s employment, revenue, health and safety laws by prosecuting non-compliant skippers and boat owners »» reconstituted Task Force to meet on a regular basis and would include the ITF as an equal partner

schemes under Ireland’s European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) Operational Programme 2014 to 2020.The EMFF Programme is co-funded by the Exchequer and the EU and targets the development of Ireland’s seafood industry to support in turn the communities reliant on the industry for incomes and jobs.

‘Over the duration of the EMFF programme, the national Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs) scheme will deliver €12m in funding to Ireland’s coastal communities.

The direct, practical nature of the projects the FLAGs support includes projects like storage facilities for fishermen - which improve working conditions at harbours and piers, and the promotion of seafood through integration with tourism and community events.

‘There are of course a range of other schemes which island fishermen and other inshore fishermen can avail of, such as the dedicated Inshore Fisheries Conservation

Scheme with its own €6m allocation.

This Scheme funds the popular lobster v-notching programme, providing direct support to fishermen for engaging in the practice of demarking lobsters for conservation and putting them back to sea to support long term healthy stocks.

‘Small Scale Coastal Fishermen are already using Ireland’s EMFF Programme to invest at very low cost in selective fishing gear, to purchase a wide variety of essential equipment on-board and equipment on-land such as ice machines and freezers to preserve and add value to catch or indeed to purchase their first fishing vessel. BIM advises that to date over 50% of all payments from the Sustainable Fisheries Scheme have been to Small Scale Coastal Fishermen. Under the Programme, most of the grants available to Small Scale ‘Article 19 of EU Regulation 1380/2013 allows Member States to adopt conservation measures which

apply to fishing vessels flying their flag or, in the case of fishing activities which are not conducted by a fishing vessel, persons established in their territory ‘Article 20 allows Member States to take non-discriminatory measures for the conservation and management of fish stocks and the maintenance or improvement of the conservation status of marine ecosystems within 12 nautical miles of its baselines.

‘Both articles are restricted by certain provisions. The Private Members’ Bill intends to require licences for individual island fishermen engaged in small scale coastal fishing, an activity by EU definition carried out by fishing vessels.

‘As the Bill does not intend to apply to fishing vessels and does not seek to establish conservation measures for fish stocks it cannot be considered to be compatible with Articles 19 and 20 of EU Regulation 1380/2013.’

Regulation 1380/2013

»» page 12

Criteria for the allocation of fishing opportunities by Member States ‘When allocating the fishing opportunities available to them, as referred to in Article 16, Member States shall use transparent and objective criteria including those of an environmental, social and economic nature.The criteria to be used may include, inter alia, the impact of fishing on the environment, the history of compliance, the contribution to the local economy and historic catch levels.

‘Within the fishing opportunities allocated to them, Member States shall endeavour to provide incentives to fishing vessels deploying selective fishing gear or using fishing techniques with reduced environmental impact, such as reduced energy consumption or habitat damage.’

12 inshore ireland Spring 2018

Fisheries »» from page 11

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he Joint Committee on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation held two meetings in 2017 to discuss the situation regarding non-EEA crew in the Irish fishing fleet under the ‘Atypical Worker Permission Scheme’. The meetings followed a request from the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) and the Migrants Rights Centre Ireland (MCRI).

At the July meeting, the Committee heard from organisations representing non-EEA migrant fishers and in October heard from fishing representatives, government departments and agencies to address concerns outlined at the July meeting.

Atypical Worker Permission Scheme Main features: »» provides for the issue by Irish National Immigration Service (INIS) of atypical worker permissions to eligible non-EEA workers engaged or to be engaged on whitefish vessels greater than 15 metres in length; »» permits the employment of a maximum of 500 non-EEA workers at any given time on eligible vessels »» provides for cross-sectoral pre-clearance for prospective workers (retrospectively applied to existing workers who registered within 3 months of the commencement date of the scheme) »» employees are required to provide all necessary backup documentation such as proof of identity, birth certificates, passports, evidence of previous employment and/or relevant experience in the fishing sector, professional qualifications/ training in fishing and safety at sea, etc. »» employers, who must be licensed vessel owners, are responsible for ensuring that a valid contract of employment, certified by a Solicitor and drafted in accordance with National and EU employment rights legislation, is in place »» employers are responsible for putting in place repatriation arrangements for employees on termination of the contract »» the State has set up a depository of contracts and monitors the overall level of contracts

Recommendations

that a PPS number is attached to each permit 4. The Committee 1.The Committee recommends that a recommends that the waterproof copy of the atypical scheme be amended permit be carried at sea to be linked to the worker 5. The Committee only, and not specific recommends that to a vessel or owner.

1a) Meanwhile, there should interpreters be readily available to the Workplace be a moratorium on the Relations Commission issuing of permits to ‘out of where the need arises country non-EEA nationals.

6. The Committee The position of all existing ‘in recommends that extra country non-EEA nationals’ should be regularised, within 6 funding be made available to the Workplace Relations months, before consideration Commission to allow it is given to reopening the continue with a rigorous scheme. When the scheme inspection regime of the reopens applications should relevant Irish fishing fleet, only be granted from especially if the atypical their country of origin worker permission scheme is 1b) Where fishers are extended to smaller vessels identified as having been 7. The Committee trafficked, priority should recommends that a single be given by all relevant state Minister/Government agencies dealing with fishers Department be given overall to end such practices responsibility for the fishing 2. The Committee industry. This would ensure recommends that vessels direct ministerial responsibility under 15 metres be included for the coordination of in the atypical worker Department and agency permission scheme action in the industry. And 3. The Committee this Department would recommends that there ensure the enforcement of the should be a simplification state’s employment, revenue, of the permit process so health and safety laws by that applications can be prosecuting non-compliant made directly to a central skippers and boat owners registry that is open to 8. The Committee public inspection and

recommends that a reconstituted Task Force meet on a regular basis and would include the ITF as an equal partner so that its expertise and experience can be utilised to help make the scheme effective 9. The Committee recommends that an information campaign targeted at the fishing industry be undertaken to increase the understanding of the functions of the different agencies 10. The Committee recommends that a review of the Marine Survey Office be undertaken to ensure it has sufficient resources and legislative basis to fulfil its functions and allow it to cooperate fully with other State bodies. The Committee also recommends that the MSO be appointed as the lead statutory enforcement agency 11. The Committee recommends that official statistics regarding the number of permits issued under the scheme be published on a regular basis 12. The Committee recommends the ratification and enforcement by the Irish State of ILO convention 188 concerning work in the fishing sector

BIM set for a busy inshore fisheries trade show in Galway

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s proud sponsor of the Skipper Expo International Galway, BIM, is all set for a busy two days at Ireland’s dedicated trade show for the Irish fishing sector.

This annual event enables State agencies the opportunity to listen to and inform fishermen around the coast, regarding key supports and initiatives designed to develop a sustainable and profitable future.

A busy schedule is planned to coincide with the trade show, including a networking event and lunch for women in the seafood sector on March 1, 11.30am in the Galway Bay hotel, and an informal, interactive ‘catch up’ for sharing news and ideas at the Lobster Pot restaurant, 2-5pm.

Background

Following BIM’s facilitation of the first networking event for women in the seafood industry on the August 28 last year, and based on feedback from women working or involved in a variety of sectors in the industry, a clear desire

was evident to establish an online forum for women to share information that would support and drive improved efficiencies in their businesses, and greater female participation in the sector.

Ireland’s seafood Industry, similar to other countries, is male dominated particularly in the fishing sector when it comes to going to sea and actually operating the boat, according to the seafood development agency.

Less than five Irish fishing vessels have female registered owners and there are only a handful of active female fishers.

“Notwithstanding, women play a vital role in supporting family fishing enterprises.

Typically they do most of the paperwork, reporting and administration that keeps the vessel at sea and compliant with all of the regulation.

“It is strongly felt that a support network could encourage greater representation, leadership roles and recognise the significant contribution women play in seafood,” says BIM chief executive, Jim O’Toole.

This practical workshop aims to officially establish this forum and to agree next steps to ensure women’s role in the industry is more visible and inclusive.

In the afternoon, the ‘catch-up’ event will focus on sharing information relevant to fishermen and their families on issues including financial advice on revenue, pensions and social welfare entitlements.

Topics will centre on ‘the future of fishing – attracting young people into the sector; the latest new gear technology that will save time and money’ and ‘financial supports for fishermen and their families – do you know your entitlements?’

The sessions will run simultaneously so attendees can experience all three short, practical interactive workshops. The sessions are also designed to allow open discussion on these three important topics.

To enable fishermen to share information and learn relevant and practical information, attendees will hear experiences from catching sector representatives

along with BIM representatives in each field.

Strong financial management is crucial to every family fishing enterprise and an experienced financial advisor will outline on available entitlements.

Following the event, BIM will host a buffet dinner in the Lobster Pot restaurant at 6.30pm.

On the floor

BIM will have expert staff on hand at the trade event (March 2-3) to outline supports around safety at sea; new gear technology; sustainable fishing schemes and the European

Maritime Fisheries Fund grant aid programmes.

In partnership with the RNLI, BIM will be assisting with daily safety demonstrations in the hotel pool to emphasise the importance of safety training and the availability of compact PFDs with integrated Personal Locator Beacons available and grant-aided through BIM’s Enhanced Safety Scheme.

BIM stands (37, 39, 96) and BIM’s Coastal Training Unit (outside the hotel entrance) to learn more about the services BIM provide.

Always wear a personal flotation device on or near water

inshore ireland Spring 2018 13

Seafood Counter

Demand holds for Irish seafood on world markets Gillian Mills

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eafood exports to 72 countries increased by 16% in 2017 to €645m, in line with increase in export volumes.

‘Average unit prices remained relatively stable at around €2,637/tonne across all species exported during this period,’ according to figures released by Bord Bia. ‘Demand for salmon is expected to outstrip supply for 2018, especially for Irish organic salmon where production is forecast to remain stable or even slightly decrease, and prices are ‘firm due to stable global production.’

While global salmon production in 2018 is not expected to increase significantly, Norwegian plans for major growth by 2030 based on offshore technology ‘could see a quintupling of production in the long-term’.

Richie Flynn, IFA Aquaculture however told Inshore Ireland he sees no evidence that the Norwegian industry has any desire or plans for scaled production in the short or medium term.

“Irish production is focused on a niche organic, high value market and as such is only marginally impacted by generic production. Our difficulty remains that we have far too little of our own fish to due to licencing difficulties to service our existing markets.”

At a glance

France, Spain, UK, Italy and Germany continue to dominate exports at 57%; Irish fresh salmon into Poland increased by 330%.

The share of seafood exports to international markets continued at ~25% of total exports with Africa’s four main markets (Nigeria, Cameroon, Egypt and Ghana) accounting for 10%.

Exports to Asian markets (China (+12%); Hong Kong (~ %); South Korea (+3%) and Japan (+29%) increased by 5% in value terms to the end of October. Overall, this region accounted for ~11% of total seafood export values.

Pelagic

Volumes of pelagic fish exports were up 14% and value up 5%. The pelagic sector currently accounts for 27% (-30% on 2016) of total seafood export values and up to 59% of total volume exported (down from 63% in 2016).

‘The ongoing closure of the Russian market is placing an increased emphasis on the need to open up and grow sales in new markets.

Positive factors include strong demand from European and Japanese customers, coupled with growing business in select Eastern European markets.’

Whitefish

Total whitefish exports were up 7% in value terms to core markets of Spain (+10%); France (~%); and the UK (-9%).

‘Export demand remains strong so strategies to increase the volume of fish landed in Ireland will remain crucial for the processing sector.’

The impact of Brexit remains the great unknown and may present as an opportunity or threat, says Bord Bia. ‘Companies are concerned by the prospect of tariffs and non-trade barriers potentially increasing the cost of transiting through the UK.’ In contrast however, as the main competition for Irish whitefish processors is from Scottish companies, the Irish sector could benefit ‘if the EU introduces any costs/customs on goods coming into the EU’.

export market for oysters at 71% export values and shows solid growth of 7%.

Irish crab exports fell by 23% (value) due to supply challenges, corresponding to a drop in export volume of 35%. The strength of demand for Irish crab in core markets is reflected by an average unit price increase of 18%: (China +7%); France (+20%) and Spain (+29%).

Sales of Irish mussels increased by 11% in value,

on foot of 83% growth to the Dutch market. The Italian market remained static but export values were down 10% to the UK; by 4% to France and by 61% to Germany.

Sales of prepacked Irish mussels to Hong Kong and China show significant growth with average unit price secured at around €6/kg.

Salmon

Exports increased by 77% in value and 64% in

volume. The French market continues to dominate exports, accounting for over 45% of total value with sales increasing by 51%.

The German market grew by 42% in value and 53% in volume and the Swiss market recorded ‘very strong performance’ with over a doubling in sales.

Strong export sales growth also recorded on Polish market (+€22m) and quadrupled into Holland to reach almost €7m.

Shellfish

Total shellfish exports recorded a drop in sales value by 42%. Export values of Irish langoustine fell by 40% (Italy); 38% (Spain) and 30% (France), reflecting a reduction in value of almost €20m due to large volumes on the market and increased competition from Dutch suppliers.

The potential for sales is evident however where demand ‘far exceeds supply and is hampering the sector’s ability to grow’. Scarcity of raw material (supply and poor weather conditions) coupled with new entrants competing for finite raw material is having an impact on established suppliers and is driving up raw material prices, warns Bord Bia. Despite these challenges, the shellfish sector is achieving a ‘more balanced market position’ between sales to Europe, Asia and the US, ‘and is positive about its growth prospects’, operating in a growing global market.

Irish oysters grew by 13% in value, fuelled by securing improved average unit price.

Exports to China more than doubled, and sales to Hong Kong rose by 27% and Singapore by 19%.

France remains the largest

For more inormation visit

www.inshoreireland.com

‘Connecting seafood companies with customers in Ireland and worldwide’ Do potential new customers know you exist online?

A link on the Inshore Ireland website could bridge that gap!

Contact sales@inshoreireland.com and we’ll call you back.

Gillian Mills: 01 235 4804 087 290 2045 Gery Flynn: 091 844 822 085 747 5797

14 inshore ireland Spring 2018

Harbour Innovation Campus

An artist impression of the new state-of-the-art Harbour Innovation Campus at Dún Laoghaire Ferry Terminal

New arrivals at Dún Laoghaire Ferry Terminal

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lans are underway to transform the old ferry terminal into the Harbour Innovation Campus — a state-of-the-art centre for technology, marine and design businesses that could support up to 1,000 jobs.

The former Ferry Terminal on St. Michael’s Pier was built in 1996 to replace an earlier 1960’s building. It was specifically designed to handle up to 750 footpassengers at any one time and included everything one would expect of a busy passenger terminal: a duty-free shop, arrivals hall, departures lounge and baggage hall.

Sadly, this terminal which catered exclusively to the needs of foot-passengers was doomed from the start. Less than a year after it opened, Ryanair floated on the stock market, and low-cost air travel quickly became a much cheaper and easier way to visit cities across the UK. Duty-free shopping was abolished under EU law in 1999 and foot passenger traffic dropped to just a few dozen people per day.

Linking harbour and town

In 2014, the ferry operators vacated the building, thus ending the long history of ‘Boat and Train’ journeys by foot-passengers from Dún Laoghaire to the UK. The Ferry Terminal currently stands as a cold reminder of Ireland’s legacy of emigration. It is empty, lifeless and serves no useful purpose whatsoever.

Philip Gannon, CEO of Blond Capital, hopes to transform this spacious building into a world-class innovation campus that will create employment and provide an essential link between the harbour and the town.

Gannon remembers departing from the Ferry Terminal 25 years ago, bound for Britain in search of work along with thousands of other young emigrants. His vision today is to “repurpose this culturally significant building to create a beacon to all who believe that in today’s digitally-connected world, emigration is no longer a necessity in the search for economic prosperity.“

World-class centre

He wants to transform this place where talent went to leave the country into a place that will attract the best talent in the world — the talent that will help to grow Irish business and lead to the export of Irish goods and services instead of Irish people.

“The Harbour Innovation Campus will now be all about arrivals and not departures,” he says.

Gannon has signed a 10year lease for the disused building which he envisions will comprise a state-of-theart shared innovation space for local and international companies, and directly inject around €20m into the local economy over the next 10 years.

At almost 7,000m2 (75,000sq ft), the campus will be the largest such hub in Ireland and one of the top five in Europe, housing up to 1,000 workers across the former arrivals hall, departure lounge, baggage hall and ticket office buildings.

“Inside the Harbour Innovation Campus, founders, innovators and entrepreneurs can avail of VC funding, trained mentors and business

advisors all focused on helping occupants to grow their businesses. This unique space presents a great opportunity to boost not only Dún Laoghaire and the surrounding areas, but the country as a whole.”

No significant building work is required to the building exterior and the interior will be (reversibly) transformed into beautifully designed co-working space with sensational sea views from almost every desk.

Innovation incubation hub

The campus will provide an inspirational work environment for a community of founders, freelancers, entrepreneurs, R&D teams and investors, who will work together to form an ecosystem based on collaboration, innovation and creativity.

It will be home to at least fifty different small businesses primarily working in marine, media and technology-related industries. Each company will be given full access to mentorship; training; accelerator and incubation programmes; meeting rooms; community meet-up areas; production studios; maker

space; a café and large restaurant, plus a host of other benefits that will help them to scale their businesses, both nationally and internationally.

Marine R&D

Up to a third of the working space will be allocated to marine research and innovation programmes to support sustainable development of Ireland’s marine resources. Projects may include oceanography; the marine environment; aquaculture; seafood safety; fish health and education and outreach. A number of companies have already made initial enquiries and given the stunning coastal location and the short 20 minute train trip from the city centre, HIC expect a strong demand.

“The co-working phenomena is already very well established worldwide, and there is a clear need in south county Dublin for a large creative workspace where marine, technology and media-related companies can share ideas, collaborate, develop exciting new products and services and create cutting edge technology,” says Gannon.

inshore ireland Spring 2018 15

Harbour Innovation CAmpus

St. Michael’s Pier, Harbour Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, Ireland Email: info@hic.ie Website: www. harbourcampus.com

Fact file Membership:

To access the campus 24/7, a monthly membership applies. (No lease, no rates, no utility bill or management charges etc.). Also available is 10 GB broadband, 150 carparking spaces and unlimited free coffee and fruit water.

Single space ‘drop in’ from €295 pm, 24 hour access Single space dedicated desk from €495 pm, 24 hour access Small team space (2-10) private, glass partitioned from €795 pm. Please ask to see floor plans Large team space (12-20) private, glass partitioned from €4,800 pm Meeting rooms choice of 15 from €20 per hour

16 inshore ireland Spring 2018

Marine R&D

Mystery solved on marine research buoy

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research buoy approximately half a metre in diameter that drifted over 6,000 kilometres across the Beaufort Sea, Arctic Ocean and Atlantic, was recently discovered on the west coast at Lettermullen, Connemara, by local sea scouts during an exploration of their local beach.

Michael Loftus, Gasógaí Mara na Gaeltachta leader explained that the sea scouts often find flotsam and jetsam washed up on the shore that they can usually identify.

“Little did we know however that this new find would uncover a world of discovery relating to the buoy being launched from an aircraft over the Arctic Ocean and travelling thousands of kilometres to land on the west coast of Ireland.”

Autonomous instruments The Marine Institute, which works on a series of projects where autonomous instruments are deployed into the ocean for marine research, were contacted to help solve the mystery of where the red buoy came from.

“Although the buoy is not an Argo float that is typically used by the Institute as part of the national Argo float programme, we were delighted to help the Sea Scouts establish that the buoy is in fact an Airborne Expendable Ice Buoy, which came from as far away as the Beaufort Sea,” explained Diarmuid Ó Conchubhair, Marine Institute, and vice-chair of the European Argo programme.

The International Arctic Buoy Programme, involves a number of different countries including Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Norway, Russia, and the

United States. The programme maintains a network of drifting buoys in the Arctic Ocean, used to monitor sea surface temperatures, ice concentration, and sea level and support weather forecasting. The buoys are also used to validate climate or earth system models that inform the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports.

Each buoy in this programme has an identification number which is used to track its location in the Arctic Ocean using a type of satellite communication system.

“Using the number marked on this buoy (#4800512), we were able to establish that this particular buoy had been deployed by an aircraft over five years ago in the Beaufort Sea, north of the Yukon and Alaska, west of Canadian Arctic islands,” said Diarmuid Ó Conchubhair, Marine Institute.

“Researchers involved in the International Arctic Buoy Programme decide where to deploy buoys, particularly where the status of sea-ice may be changing. Most of the buoys are placed on sea ice, but some are placed in open water in some of the most remote parts of the world’s ocean, where it is difficult for research vessels to access,” added Dr Eleanor O’Rourke, Oceanographic Services Manager at the Marine Institute.

Live deployment Footage of the ice buoy found on the Connemara beach being deployed from an US Coast Guard C-130 aircraft in 2012, can be seen online at http:// iabp.apl.washington.edu/, where it shows the buoy opening its parachute for landing in the Arctic Ocean.

Airborne Expendable Ice

Buoys have an average life-span of 18 months and approximately 25 to 40 buoys operate at any given time.

“The buoy last reported its data in 2014 and it is likely that it ran out of battery power and spent the last 3-4 years at the sea surface travelling via wind and ocean surface currents,” remarked Eleanor O’Rourke.

In 2007, Ireland became a member of the international ARGO programme, which uses robotic instruments known as autonomous Argo floats that report on subsurface ocean water properties such as temperature and salinity via satellite transmission to data centres. Using a fleet of ~4,000 autonomous floats around the world, the Argo array is an indispensable component of the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS).

“Similar to the buoys used by the International Arctic Buoy Programme, Argo floats collect and distribute real-time information on the temperature and salinity of the ocean.

Argo floats, however, measure these variables from the upper 2,000m of the ocean and help to describe long-term trends in ocean parameters such as their physical and thermodynamic state,” Diarmuid Ó Conchubhair explained This information is required to understand and monitor the role of the ocean in the Earth’s climate system, in particular the heat and water balance.

For more information about Ireland’s involvement in the ARGO programme: https:// www.marine.ie/Home/ site-area/areas-activity/ oceanography/euro-argo. You can also track and look at data from Irish Argo floats at: http:// www.digitalocean.ie/

Above left: Image of the buoy found washed up in Letter Mullen, Galway. Above Right: A selection of Irish Argo floats showing their drift pattern over the last 100days

The distance of approximately 6,000km the buoy travelled between the Beaufort Sea and west Connemara

Marine Institute scientist appointed Vice Chair of ICES Advisory Committee

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cientist Dr Colm Lordan from the Fisheries Ecosystems Advisory Services at the Marine Institute has been appointed Vice Chair of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) Advisory Committee.

The ICES Advisory Committee (ACOM) is responsible for providing scientific advice to competent authorities in

support of the sustainable management of marine resources and ecosystems in the North Atlantic Ocean.

Dr Lordan joined the Marine Institute in 1998 and participated in Northern Shelf and Southern Shelf demersal stock assessment working groups. In 2003, his focus moved to nephrops stocks and developing underwater television surveys and assessment methods.

Dr Lordan currently leads a team of scientists working on

demersal fish and nephrops surveys, stock assessment and scientific advice.

Dr Lordan said he is expecting his three-year term as Vice Chair to be both busy and diverse: “I am looking forward to getting a broader perspective on the advisory system and I hope to learn a lot about stocks, fisheries, assessments, and management challenges in areas beyond the Celtic Seas.

“I am also interested in

collaborating with others to improve the quality assurance and to develop new and innovative advisory products.”

Dr Lordan was first involved with ICES in 1993, and since then has participated in 60 different ICES expert groups and has chaired or co-chaired 16 working groups.

ICES has a network of more than 5,000 scientists from over 690 marine institutes in 20 countries.

For more information on ICES visit http://www.ices.dk

inshore ireland Spring 2018 17

Marine R&D

Our Ocean Wealth Summit 2018

T RV Celtic Explorer off to a renewed start in 2018

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he Marine Institute’s research vessel RV Celtic Explorer is off to a renewed start in 2018, after undergoing a major refit, and is ready to accommodate 18 scientific surveys throughout the year.

The five-year refit included an overhaul of the bow thruster and an upgrade of its DC propulsion system.

The vessel’s original fishing sonar was removed and a new Simrad SU92 fisheries sonar installed. The new sonar will have an increased range and resolution and a decreased noise level which will be a huge advantage for the Marine Institute’s fisheries research.

The vessel’s accommodation also received an upgrade after 15 years of service with cabin floors refurbished and a new accommodation layout in the scientists’ cabins.

RV Celtic Explorer’s refit also included painting and antifouling of the hull and complete painting of the superstructure as well as a major 60,000-hour overhaul of one of its main diesel generators. Refit of the 65.5m vessel took place at the A&P yard in Falmouth, starting in mid- December 2017 and completed in January.

RV Celtic Explorer came into service in 2003 and is designed for fisheries acoustic research, oceanographic, hydrographic and geological investigations as well as buoy/deep water mooring and ROV Operations.

Several deepwater ROV surveys will take place this year. One led by Dr Louise Allcock from the National University of Ireland, Galway, will investigate deep-sea corals and sponges from a diversity of deep-water habitats.

Professor Andrew Wheeler, University College Cork, will explore and monitor coldwater corals in the submarine canyons in the deep ocean to determine their sensitivity to climate change, fisheries and oil industry impacts.

A survey led by Professor Sergei Lebedev, Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies, will investigate the structure, evolution and seismic hazard of Ireland’s offshore territory.

Professor Lebedev’s team will for the first time deploy an array of ocean-bottom, broadband seismometers offshore, which together with existing arrays onshore will cover the entire Irish territory.

Dr Aggeliki Georgiopoulou,

University College Dublin, will survey the structure and composition of the lower crust and mantle, as well as any hydrothermal activity at the Charlie Gibbs Fracture Zone — the largest geological fault in the northern Mid-Atlantic Range.

In 2018, the Marine Institute will also undertake acoustic surveys of anglerfish and megrim, blue whiting, Celtic Sea herring and boarfish on RV Celtic Explorer.

An INFOMAR-led survey will also map the physical features of the seabed in the Celtic Sea, using hydrographic techniques.

To follow the voyages of the RV Celtic Explorer, visit the Marine Institute website to track a vessel or view the vessel schedule.

A virtual tour of the RV Celtic Explorer can also be accessed from the Marine Institute website at www.marine.ie

his year’s Our Ocean Wealth Summit takes place in Galway, June 28-29, and will bring together world-renowned speakers, industry experts, business development agencies and representatives from the Irish business and marine research community to drive innovation, progress and success in Ireland’s marine sector.

Leading national speakers from the political, environmental and scientific sectors will provide a unique platform for policymakers, researchers, business and industry representatives from across the marine and supporting sectors to collaborate on Ireland’s marine future.

Delegates will be part of a dialogue addressing key questions on how Ireland proceeds in implementing its national marine plan, ‘Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth’.

A focus of this year’s summit is investing in Ireland’s marine industry and developing Ireland’s ocean economy, which according to the 4th SEMRU Report had a direct economic value of €1.8bn and a turnover of €5.7bn in 2016.

The focus will also be on investing in research to understanding more about our oceans, and investing in ways to preserve and protect our vast and diverse marine resource. With much of the world’s oceans remaining largely unexplored and its dynamics yet to be fully explained, achieving sustainable economic growth is both a challenge and an imperative.

As well as high-profile speakers, the summit programme will include panel discussions, interactive sessions and a Trade Show Networking Event.

Following the summit, Ireland’s largest and most spectacular maritime festival, SeaFest 2018, will take place over the weekend. Now in its fourth year, SeaFest has become one of the most popular summer festivals in Ireland, attracting more than 100,000 visitors in 2017.

Galway Harbour will offer a host of exciting activities and attractions for all ages, on and around the water.

The festival will cover all things marine – from seafood cookery to science, exploring the ships that transport us to discovering the creatures of the deep.

SeaFest creates awareness of our maritime heritage and celebrates the amazing ways that our seas and oceans enrich our lives.

For more information visit www.seafest.ie

18 inshore ireland Spring 2018

Marine R&D

Micro plastic waste: a major threat to the marine environment Gery Flynn

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he UK ban on using plastic micro beads in cosmetics that came into effect on January 9, highlights the need for a more effective EU-wide response to the problem of waste plastic in the sea, says Dr Peter Heffernan, Marine Institute chief executive.

Speaking on RTE Radio 1 Morning Ireland, Dr Heffernan said the key risk about plastic micro beads was their potential to get into the food chain.

“Something that small can be eaten by microorganisms at the base of the food chain in the ocean, eventually ending up in products that humans can eat — the fish we love,” he said.

Micro beads are tiny plastic circles the size of a grain of sand, and marine scientists are increasingly worried that ocean wildlife is being harmed by consuming them.

It is estimated that millions of tons of debris from plastic bags, bottles and clothes in the world’s oceans, are accumulating and are a serious threat to human health and marine ecosystems.

And because plastics do

A handful of micro plastics on Hawaii

Photo Plastic Change

not break down for years, they can be ingested and accumulate in the bodies and tissues of marine organisms.

The entire cycle and movement of microplastics in the environment is not yet known, but research is currently underway to investigate this issue.

“We’re at a very early stage globally in understanding the scale of that risk and the pathways of the plastic into the food chain. Ireland has been very quick off the ground with research, both locally in Galway Bay, off the Continental Shelf and in the very deep continental

waters,” Dr Heffernan added.

Changing behaviour

Describing the scale of the challenge ahead, Dr Heffernan said that “every minute of every day around the globe a truck load of plastic is dumped into the ocean; that’s eight million tonnes of plastic waste a year.

“If that continues and if humans do not change behaviour and stop it at source, by 2050 it’s estimated that the weight of plastic in the oceans will be more than the weight of fish,” he warned.

“From space, the scale of

Plastics washed onto a beach on the west coast of Denmark

Photo KIMO

plastic pollution in the ocean can look like islands in parts of the Pacific. We have got to change human behaviour and change manufacturing and industrial behaviour.

“We have personal choice in this: we can choose not to use single-use plastics; we can choose to identify where products contain micro beads and decide at a personal level not to use them. That’s a very powerful signal to the market.”

As to the possibility that legislation recently introduced in the UK might soon be introduced here, Dr Heffernan confirmed that at a major oceans conference in Malta last October, the Irish government announced it would introduce a ban on the manufacture and sale of products containing plastic micro beads before the end of 2018.

“There’s a massive awareness in the world about the dangers of plastics and I think the younger generation are already ahead of many adults in knowing the risk and are already identifying themselves that they don’t want to use these products,” Dr Heffernan concluded.

5 Trillion plastic pieces weighing 250,000 tons afloat at sea – study estimates through the environment Published by the open have led some researchers to access journal, PLOS ONE, claim that synthetic polymers the study (Plastic Pollution in the ocean should be in the World’s Oceans: More scientific study regarded as hazardous waste. than 5 Trillion Plastic Pieces undertaken between Weighing over 250,000 Tons 2007 and 2013 Afloat at Sea / https:// involving 24 expeditions Key points from the doi.org/10.1371/journal. across all five sub-tropical study: pone.0111913) by Marcus gyres (North Pacific, • through photo-degradation Eriksen of the Five Gyres North Atlantic, South and other weathering Institute in Los Angeles and Pacific, South Atlantic, processes, plastics colleagues says that with Indian Ocean): coastal fragment and disperse in plastic pollution globally Australia; Bay of Bengal the ocean, converging in distributed across all oceans and the Mediterranean Sea, the subtropical gyres due to its properties of estimates that more than • generation and buoyancy and durability, 5 trillion plastic pieces accumulation of plastic and the sorption of toxicants weighing over 250,000 tons pollution also occurs in Estimate of Plastic Pollution in the World’s Oceans to plastic while traveling are afloat at sea. closed bays, gulfs and seas surrounded by densely populated coastlines and watersheds • the impact of plastic pollution through ingestion and entanglement of marine fauna ranges from zooplankton to cetaceans, seabirds and marine reptiles • adsorption of persistent organic pollutants onto plastic and their transfer into tissues and organs through ingestion is impacting marine Model results for global weight density in 4 size classes Figure 3. Model results for global weight density in four size classes. Model prediction of global weight density (g km ; see colorbar) for each of four megafauna as well as lower majority is from themm,largest class size classes (0.33–1.00 mm, 1.01–4.75 4.76–200 mm,size and .200 mm). The majority of global weight is from the largest size class.

Gery Flynn

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22

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0111913.g003

5.3361010 particles in the mesoplastic size class for the entire North Pacific. In

trophic-level organisms and their predators • impacts are further exacerbated by the persistence of floating plastics, ranging — from resin pellets to large derelict nets; docks and boats that float across oceans and transport microbial communities; algae; invertebrates and fish — to non-native regions, providing further rationale to monitor the global distribution and abundance of plastic pollution • estimates suggest that the two northern hemisphere ocean regions contain 55.6% of particles and 56.8% of plastic mass compared to the southern hemisphere, with the North Pacific containing 37.9% and 35.8% by particle count and mass, respectively • data suggest that a minimum of 233,400 tons of larger plastic items are afloat in the world’s oceans compared to 35,540 tons of microplastics

• total amount of plastics determined for the southern hemisphere oceans are within the same range as for the northern hemisphere oceans. This is unexpected given that inputs are substantially higher in the northern than southern hemisphere. This could mean that plastic pollution moves more easily between oceanic gyres and between hemispheres than previously assumed, leading to redistribution of plastic items through transport via oceanic currents • observation of much less microplastic at the sea surface than might be expected suggests that removal processes are at play. These include UV degradation; biodegradation; ingestion by organisms; decreased buoyancy due to fouling organisms; entrainment in settling detritus and beaching • fragmentation rates of already brittle microplastics may be very high, rapidly breaking

inshore ireland Spring 2018 19

Marine R&D

Industry must be part of plastic pollution solution

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he battle to protect the ‘blue planet’ received a recent boost when the European Commission launched the European Strategy for Plastics in a Circular Economy in January. Ireland South MEP Deirdre Clune has welcomed the strategy, which includes recommendations, targets and actions that must be now introduced by member states.

“Plastic production is 20 times higher now than in the 1960s and is set to quadruple again by 2050. We cannot continue to produce and use this amount of plastic, which is impacting hugely on our environment, she remarked.

Reducing the amount of plastics in our oceans and on our beaches is vital to protecting marine life and also to ensure that fish, and as a result the food chain, are not further contaminated by plastics, she added.

“We must embrace the move by Europe to eliminate single use plastics, microbeads and marine litter as soon as possible.”

Following the ban by China on foreign plastic waste, governments and industry in Europe and around the world are now addressing the issue of plastic waste. As a result, the EU now wants 55% of all plastic to be recycled by 2030.

“I warmly welcome the EU clamp down on single use plastics, such as coloured plastic bottles; coffee cups; lid and stirrers; drinking straws; takeaway packaging and microbeads. Industry must become more responsible in the use of plastics, both in terms of reduction and recyclability. As consumers we must adapt our habits, and as governments, we must implement laws that prevent non-recycable plastics irreparably damaging our environment,” added Deirdre Clune.

Ireland was a forerunner in 2002 when it became the first country to develop a policy on plastic bags. In the first year following legislation introducing a plastic bag levy, a 90% reduction in plastic bag usage was recorded in Ireland.

“We must now continue to drive the agenda, particularly as an island nation, surrounded by magnificent fishing waters and beautiful beaches, to change habits when it comes to plastics in our lives,” she added.

Science, the research journal, estimates that 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the oceans each year – the equivalent of one truckload per minute (which is over five trillion pieces of plastic debris floating in the ocean, totalling 268,940 tonnes – almost the equivalent to 25,000 Dublin buses.)

The Seas, Rivers, Islands and Coastal Areas Intergroup, of which Deirdre Clune MEP is an active member, has been working and lobbying on the issue of plastics in relation to marine life, and takes into account the specific issues faced by islands, including Ireland.

small microplastics further down into ever smaller particles • recent studies demonstrate that many more organisms ingest small plastic particles than previously thought, either directly or indirectly, via their prey organisms • numerous species ingest microplastics, and thereby make it available to higherlevel predators or may otherwise contribute to the differential removal of small particles from the sea surface, e.g. by packaging microplastics into fecal pellets, thus enhancing sinking • increasing evidence that some microbes can biodegrade microplastic

particles. This process becomes more important as plastic particles become smaller, since at decreasing particle size the surface area to volume relationship increases dramatically and oxidation levels are higher, enhancing their biodegradation potential • bacterial degradation and ingestion of smaller plastic particles by organisms may facilitate their export from the sea surface. In this manner, incorporation of smaller plastics into marine food chains may not only impact the health of the involved organisms, but also contribute to the removal of small microplastics from the sea surface.

Roadmap to develop Ireland’s first marine spatial plan

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three-year process to create a ‘coherent framework’ for Ireland’s marine space in an ‘efficient and sustainable’ manner will endeavour to balance differing stakeholder demands while protecting the marine environment, according to the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government.

Towards a Marine Spatial Plan for Ireland is intended to become a ‘decisionmaking tool’ for regulatory authorities and policy-makers on issues including individual consent applications and informing future sectoral policies and objectives.

“Ireland is a maritime nation and we derive so much of our cultural, social and economic identity from our relationship with the seas that surround us. The Government has set out clear and ambitious Harnessing our Ocean Wealth has identified that the organisation and regulation of marinebased activity in Irish waters was being out on a sectoral and demand-driven basis without a strategic framework in which sectoral policy objectives could be envisioned.

‘Managing our ocean wealth requires an overarching national marine “spatial” plan underpinned by an efficient and robust planning and licensing framework. Such an approach can provide a governance structure and blueprint for national, regional and local planning of our ocean wealth. This will provide competitive advantage for our marine sectors, help realise the full benefit of our ocean wealth and assist with managing our resources effectively and sustainably.’

HOOW predates EU Directive 2014/89/EU established an EU-wide framework for maritime spatial planning (MSP) and was adopted in July 2014.

The directive established a framework for MSP, defined as ‘a process by which the relevant Member State’s authorities analyse and

objectives under Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth - Ireland’s integrated marine plan – to enable our marine potential to be realised,” remarked Eoghan Murphy, Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government.

HOOW aims to triple the value of Ireland’s ocean wealth to 2.4% of GDP by 2030 and increase turnover from the ocean economy to exceed €6.4bn by 2020.

Reaching these goals will mean significant growth in seafood production and aquaculture; maritime transport; marine renewable energy; marine biotechnology and ICT; marine and coastal tourism and leisure, he added.

Minister Murphy recognised Ireland’s rich marine biodiversity and ecosystems and noted that any framework should be based on sustainable management of the marine environment.

Minister Damien English who has specific responsibility organise human activities in marine areas to achieve ecological, economic and social objectives.’

The Directive details the main goals and minimum requirements for Member States as follows: »» balanced and sustainable territorial development of marine waters and coastal zones »» optimised development of maritime activities and business climate »» better adaptation to risks »» resource-efficient and integrated coastal and maritime development In addition to enhanced environmental management of marine areas, the Directive is also expected to deliver a range of economic benefits for Member States, including: »» lower transaction costs for maritime businesses and improved national competitiveness »» improved certainty and predictability for private investments »» improved certainty in obtaining financing for investments in the maritime area »» improved use of sea space

for implementing the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive said that a clear framework should parallel the National Planning Frame Ireland 2040.

“A maritime spatial plan will support sustainable environmental management of marine areas; improved certainty and predictability for private investments; lower transaction costs for maritime businesses and improved competitiveness for our marine sectors; improved use of sea space and coexistence of uses in coastal zones and marine waters.”

The plan will also ensure that coastal regions and communities continue to be attractive places to live and work, he added.

The roadmap is to have a strong focus on public consultation and environmental assessments, supported by regional workshops, seminars and an interactive webbased facility at www.msp. gov.ie (launch TBC).

and the best possible coexistence of users in coastal zones and marine waters »» improved attractiveness of coastal regions as places to live and invest »» reduced co-ordination costs for public authorities »» greater development of innovation and research »» enhanced and integrated data and information Ireland has transposed the Directive through the EU (Framework for Maritime Spatial Planning) Regulations 2016, signed into law on June 29, 2016. The regulations establish the legal basis and broad framework for Ireland to implement MSP through the development of a maritime spatial plan/ plans on a 10-year cycle.

Under the regulations, the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government is the current competent authority for the purposes of the Directive and, by extension, for the purposes of preparing Ireland’s first maritime spatial plan.

Towards a Marine Spatial Plan for Ireland

A Roadmap for the delivery of the national Marine Spatial Plan

4-stage plan 2017: 2018:

2019: 2020:

Start-up / activation phase unveiled to public and stakeholders Analysis and identification of data and information. Public consultation and subsequent publication of an evidence and issues overview Public consultation and development of a draft plan Submission to government with supporting environmental assessments (strategic environmental assessment under the SEA Directive, appropriate assessment under Birds and Habitats Directives) for approval. Submission to European Commission ahead of March 2021 deadline set out under the Directive.

20 inshore ireland Spring 2018

Marine R&D

Irish model of free access to prefinanced seabed mapping data declared ‘ideal’ at international meeting

T

he American Geophysical Union (AGU) held its annual meeting in New Orleans, USA, in mid-December 2017, attended by circa 23,000 earth and space scientists from all over the globe for what was the largest meeting of its kind.

The meeting was the fifty-first such meeting and afforded geoscientists the opportunity to present their research, hear about the latest discoveries, trends, and challenges in the field; and provided opportunity to network with colleagues that can lead to enhanced future careers.

Maria Judge, GSI

Having identified the lack of opportunity for the international seabed mapping community to converge, share work, knowledge, experience and contacts; I formed the idea to propose a session for AGU that would focus entirely on seabed mapping. ????

After reaching out to Kim Piccard from Geoscience Australia (GA) and Samuel Johnson from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) a full proposal was submitted to AGU. This session was accepted and resulted in an incredibly positive global response.

In all, 10 hours of talks and eight hours of poster

sessions showcased 83 pieces of work on a variety of seabed mapping themes from locations world-wide.

Having identified keen international interest for the subject and the need for communication, we organised a breakout meeting to bring the active community together and to facilitate practical knowledge sharing.

Sponsored by the GSI and GA, the meeting took place on December 12 with a group of 47 passionate seabed mapping experts. During the meeting, individuals introduced themselves, their affiliation, work, needs and ideas.

Presenters from 16 nations outlined their approach to seabed mapping and we learnt more from commercial industry perspectives.

The meeting also focused on describing the new Seabed 2030 initiative.

The brainchild of seabed mapping alumni from the University of New Hampshire, Seabed 2030, is a collaborative project between GEBCO and the Nippon Foundation. Launched at the Forum for Future of Ocean Floor Mapping (FFOFM) in Monaco (June 2016), Seabed 2030 will strive to avoid duplication of effort in seabed mapping and compile acquired bathymetry data beyond national Exclusive Economic Zones.

To complete this mission, four regional data centres have been established: The Arctic Centre is run by Martin Jakobsson and Larry Mayer; the Southern Ocean Centre will be managed by AWI in Germany. the SW Pacific Centre by Geoffroy Lamarche at NIWA, and the New Zealand andIndian/Atlantic Centre will be managed by Vickie Ferrini at LDEO. A roadmap for the Seabed 2030 initiative has been published and is

available online [https:// seabed2030.gebco.net and further describes how data sharing, capacity building and new technology will help us meet the grand challenges of Seabed 2030.

Members of each of the Seabed 2030 data centres reiterated the projects inclusive nature. Larry Mayer praised the Irish approach to seabed mapping, and said the Irish model of completely mapping national territory and providing the (pre-financed) data free for all to use, was “ideal”.

Accounts were given on how the Irish model has been used as an example to convince other nations to the necessity and economic benefits accruing from seabed mapping and open access data.

The meeting concluded with a general consensus that an international network of seabed mappers and geoscientists should be formed to share knowledge and discuss topics relevant to seabed mapping.

The aim of the network would be to facilitate informed collaboration on seabed mapping issues and initiatives such as: national marine and coastal mapping programmes; methods, procedures and acquisition guidelines; derived and interpreted data products; development of data standards, and facilitate initiatives aimed at mapping the world’s oceans.

The network would strive to organise ocean mapping sessions and side meetings at appropriate international conferences; maintain a website with information on news and upcoming events; minutes from previous meetings; summarise active world programmes and initiatives and publish contact links and host a discussion page.

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The Nippon Foundation – GEBCO – Seabed 2030 Roadmap for Future Ocean Floor Mapping

of t e Oc h

The International Seabed Mapping breakout meeting, 51st AGU fall meeting, New Orleans December 2017

inshore ireland Spring 2018 21

Marine R&D

The 2018 Operational Plan will concentrate on the South Coast with bases at Kilmore Quay, Dunmore East, Youghal, Cork, Kinsale, Union Hall and Baltimore. Vessel visits will be advertised locally and the crew look forward to meeting readers over the summer.

22 inshore ireland Spring 2018

Aquaculture 1 Introduction

Shellfish producers slam report findings on sewage discharge This report provides a summary of urban waste water treatment in 2016 and identifies the most important environmental issues that must be addressed. It is based on the EPA’s

assessment of monitoring information provided by Irish Water, and the enforcement activities carried out by the EPA.

Why treat waste water?

I

The objective of waste water treatment is to collect the waste water generated within our

Malin Head to Carlingford is an extremely important area rish shellfish communities, remove material, and then release the treated water safely back depend on shellfish farming for quality food production. producers have calledthe polluting for their livelihoods.

A huge Irish shellfish products have forinto action on what the environment. Without such treatment, the waste water we produce would pollute our amount of investment has been an enviable reputation in they say is ‘a shocking waters a health global risk. export markets. “ made in supporting regulatory report’ from and the create EPA on and physical infrastructures to The quality and service raw sewage discharges to ensure that consumers have full provided by the shellfish sea. Who does what? confidence in our products.” sector is also recognised in IFA’s shellfish farming the home market which has sector chairman, Michael  Irish Water is the national water utility, responsible for the collection, treatment and shown rapid expansion in Mulloy, said Urban Waste Lack of investment recentwater. years but mainly in Water Treatment in 2016of urban waste He said the lack of discharge valuable export markets. which shows a dramatic investment in waste water He added that the shellfish increase in breaches of sewage treatment plants totally The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the environmental regulator of Irish industry provided opportunities treatment regulations around undermined years of Water.

The EPA issues and2,000 enforces authorisations for waste water discharges. for over people around the coast, “must be acted good work by the shellfish the coast to enable them upon immediately” if Ireland industry and was a major live and work in areas is to retain its reputation disappointment andWater. concernIt The Commission fortoEnergy Regulation is the economic regulator of Irish that have few alternative for safe quality seafood. for IFA members. revenue is spent efficiently and effectively improve employment prospects.

“There has toensures be clearthat Irish Water’s Mulloy addedtothat his “Over 2,000 families from recognition thatservices. our coastline members had forged new

alliances selling seafood to Asia where standards are very ‘black and white’ in terms of any contaminants.

“One look at the map will generate enquiries. The industry needs answers as to when this situation is going to be tackled,” he said.

Mulloy is demanding government support of the shellfish industry at European level by seeking specific water quality standards within the Marine Strategy Framework Directive.

“The Commission has been trying to avoid being prescriptive about limits on key indicators of pollution in the Directive. There is an opportunity now for Ireland to lead the way by insisting on limits to ensure

that public and private water companies are forced to continuously improve and monitor their systems of discharge to sea,” he said.

He added that Irish mussel and oyster producers were “in the frontline” when it comes to monitoring pollution and were being hit by the “consequences of neglect”.

“We have been campaigning as a lone voice about raw sewage for many years while other environmental campaigns have concentrated on irrelevant issues. The difference is our livelihood; our customers’ health and the future for many remote coastal areas that depend on clean water.

“This is a national priority now.” he said.

infrastructure and operational improvements needed to bring Ireland into compliance with the Directive.

Urban Waste Water Treatment in 2016

Page | 3

IMPACTS ON WATER

W

aste water treatment is essential to protect our rivers, lakes and coastal waters. Aquatic ecosystems and human health can come under threat when waste water is not adequately collected and treated. Waste water continues to be one of the principal pressures on water quality in Ireland.

Rivers and lakes

Waste water from 59 areas is the sole threat to some of the water bodies at risk of not meeting environmental objectives required by the European Union’s Water Framework Directive.

In accordance with the Water Framework Directive, our rivers and lakes must be protected and enhanced to meet the following environmental objectives: »» achieve at least good status; and

»» prevent any deterioration in existing status.

Water bodies that are of good status support healthy ecosystems and a diverse range of plants and animals.

The EPA carried out detailed assessments of Ireland’s 46 water ‘catchments’ and identified the water bodies at risk of not meeting their environmental objectives. The EPA, together with other public bodies, identified the key pollution pressures that put these water bodies at risk of not achieving their objectives.

Urban waste water is the second most common pollution pressure, after agriculture, and is a contributing factor to over one-fifth (22%) of the water bodies that are at risk. The pollution pressures from waste water can arise through discharges of inadequately treated effluent, as well as leaks, spills or overflows from collection systems.

Waste water from 59 areas is the sole pollution pressure threatening some of the water bodies at risk of not achieving good status.

Prioritising the corrective actions necessary to improve waste water discharges from these areas will protect the receiving water bodies and allow them to be restored to good status.

The corrective action may involve upgrading the collection and treatment systems, as well as improving the operation and management of these systems.

PROTECTING PEARL MUSSELS AND SHELLFISH

Urban waste water can harm freshwater pearl mussel and shellfish habitats if it is released into these areas without receiving adequate treatment. Irish Water must conduct site specific assessments into the impacts of waste water discharges on freshwater pearl mussels and shellfish. The EPA

Page | 7

reviews the findings of these assessments to determine where improvements in waste water collection and treatment are needed to protect these vulnerable species.

Freshwater pearl mussels

The freshwater pearl mussel is a critically endangered mollusc that requires clean, fast flowing, well oxygenated rivers with little nutrient or organic content and a clean river bed. The ongoing national decline in freshwater pearl mussels is attributed to habitat degradation, for example through sedimentation and nutrient enrichment. This has resulted in failure to produce new generations of mussels.

The EPA requires improvements to waste water discharges from 12 urban areas to protect freshwater pearl mussels.

This is down from 16 areas at the end of 2015.

Shellfish

Waste water released into

some coastal areas has the potential to contaminate filter feeding shellfish such as oysters, mussels, cockles and clams. Consumption of contaminated shellfish is a health risk, and can lead to vomiting, nausea and diarrhoea.

In some areas it is necessary to disinfect waste water during the treatment process, to safeguard shellfish habitats near the effluent discharge points. Disinfection is usually carried out using ultraviolet (often referred to as ‘UV’) lamps, which kill or inactivate most of the bugs and viruses in the waste water.

The EPA has identified three urban areas where upgrade works are needed to provide waste water disinfection systems. These are listed in Appendix F. Irish Water must finalise assessments of the impacts on shellfish of discharges from around 70 other urban areas. These assessments are essential to inform the need for disinfection of discharges from these areas.

inshore ireland Spring 2018 23

Aquaculture

Ready to check the biomass of the huge pseudo-kelp (Saccorhiza polyschides) that had been grown next to Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)

Figure 1. Schematic demonstrating the principle of IMTA in a land-based tank system

Integrated MultiTrophic Aquaculture - an Atlantic Area Project Jessica Ratcliff* and Anna Soler-Vila**

M

ore and more people are becoming aware of Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) — a term coined in the 1990s as a variation on the concept of polyculture.

Polyculture is the cocultivation of species, in contrast to monoculture which is currently the dominant practice in European aquaculture.

IMTA differs from polyculture by specifying that co-cultivated species must be from different trophic levels, meaning that energy supplied to the highest trophic level — often a carnivorous finfish — spills over to species lower down the food chain.

When fish, such as salmon, are fed a formulated feed, particulate waste in the form of uneaten feed and faeces is taken up by filter and/or deposit feeders (e.g. mussels), and dissolved waste produced by animal species is used by algae to improve growth and composition. It is essentially a simplified and artificially constructed ecosystem which carefully manages inputs in order to be more efficient - a farm with its own builtin fertilisation system.

While very intuitive and appealing in theory, and with the potential for economic (greater productivity), environmental (reduced nutrient pollution) and social (job provision and better utilization of space in the coastal zone) advantages, the implementation of IMTA is complex in practice. This is especially true under a

monoculture paradigm, which focuses on the production of a single, high-value species, while IMTA tends to maximise the productivity of the whole system.

Environmental benefits

Examples exist where IMTA has proved beneficial.

The abalone industry in South Africa benefited economically from incorporating macroalgae into their farms, with wider benefits to the environment, and in Denmark tightened regulatory hurdles mean finfish production capacity can be increased only if the nutrient inputs are lessened, i.e. more fish with less waste.

Research shows that cultivating seaweeds and/or mussels alongside the fish, is the best available technique to balance the system. In both cases, and in many others, IMTA seems to need an external driver to get it started. In Europe, drivers might similarly be space related or emissions (e.g. the Water Framework Directive).

In the future, we anticipate that IMTA might be applied in remediation of highvolume, low-concentration effluent as produced in landbased flow-through systems; in management of ‘unintentional IMTA’ where co-cultivation occurs as a result of farm proximity at sea, rather than planned integration, and perhaps in more technologically advanced recirculating systems (RAS) as a biofilter that is also a crop.

Public image

Following on from IDREEM (EU FP7), INTEGRATE is a new project investigating the next steps in research

and commercialisation of IMTA to work towards these goals. It is funded under the Interreg Atlantic Area programme – Resource Efficiency priority.

From 2017-2020, eight partner organisations from Spain, Portugal, France, UK and Ireland will be involved in the project. The Irish partners are the Irish Seaweed Consultancy and NUI Galway, with BIM and Bantry Marine Station as Associated Partners.

Aiming to foster cooperation for industrial transition towards IMTA, the project will provide tools to increase competitiveness and contribute to removing barriers for growth within the eco-aquaculture sector, while improving the quality and public image of aquatic products.

During the project there will be workshops, training events and networking events, with a focus on transferring knowledge within and between the wider partnership.

Educational and training materials, scientific papers and networks through websites and social media platforms will be created alongside producing policy briefing documents to support development of the regulatory framework.

In Ireland, pilot actions at Carna Research Station will look specifically at some technical aspects of cultivation and interactions between seaweed, lumpsuckers and urchins.

In collaboration with the Marine Institute in the H2020 TAPAS project, we will also look into the cultivation of summer seaweed species on an IMTA marine farm. *Irish Seaweed Research Group, Ryan Institute, NUI Galway **Irish Seaweed Consultancy Ltd

Salmon and gigas oysters continue as prime seafood performers

A

quaculture production in Ireland increased by 9% in volume to reach 44,000 tonnes in 2016, with a value at first point of sale of €167m, an increase of roughly 13%. The primary driver of these results is continued development of the gigas oyster and salmon industry, according to the 2017 BIM Annual Aquaculture Survey.

Gigas oyster production increased to almost 10,000 tonnes, a thousand tonne increase in two years. More significantly, the report notes, is the increase in value from €35m to €41m. Gigas oysters now accounts for 25% of overall aquaculture production by value and 74% of the value of shellfish aquaculture.

Salmon production was extremely positive with production reaching 16,300 tonnes, valued at €105m, an increase of 24% and 16% respectively.

In terms of employment, aquaculture contributed to providing over 1,900 jobs, an increase of 6% on the survey data for 2015. The oyster industry remains the biggest employer, providing nearly 1,300 jobs of which 92% are male.

The seabed cultured and rope mussel sector experienced another ‘challenging’ year with combined production volume of 16,000 tonnes and a value of €12m. This value is marginally down on 2015 values and reflects the continued challenge of acquiring seed mussels and a competitive market. Despite this, the seed settlement in previous years has increased and this ‘should become evident in the returns for 2017’, the report notes.

Production of novel species such as perch, abalone and urchin remain stable and some increase in perch production is expected in 2017.

24 inshore ireland Spring 2018

Coastline News

Flooding, overtopping and safety ignored in second east coast planning application

A

revised plan for residential development at Bulloch Harbour, Co Dublin, was described as an ‘extremely flawed document’ and ‘worse than the original application’, at a public meeting in January that attracted a full house in a local hotel.

In February 2017, Dún Laoghaire County Council rejected an application by the Bartra Property Group comprising six shop units with overhead apartments, a café and three, three-story houses. The development was described by Bartra as ‘both respectful and enhancing of the harbour and the local environment’.

In their refusal, Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown County Council said the site area reserved for residential use was excessive and that the design had inadequate provision for its marine-related aspects.

The development would ‘seriously compromise’ the harbour’s ability to attract

marine-related used and would limit their scale and diversity.

The plan was also described as ‘lacking in the quality and distinctiveness of design required’ for the location and would result in an incongruous and abrupt visual form.

‘In particular the development fails to integrate appropriately within the harbour area.’

Second application The current application includes three large houses (412 m2) buildings comprising three storeys and a fourth roof garden to the rear of the site.

‘These houses appear to be a metre higher than the previous proposal’ and taller than the adjacent county council pumping station, ‘with a further 1.6m access structure projecting above’, notes the Bulloch Harbour Presentation Society.

This site is ‘unsuitable due to serious flooding and overtopping’ where waves

with debris are projected over the rocks and land on the proposed site.

Overtopping is a regular occurrence at Bulloch from increasing north-easterly storms, the meeting heard.

A flood risk report is included in the application but is described by objectors as ‘generic in nature’ and based on theoretical models that ‘do not adequately reflect the unique topography of the site’. They add that no experts have witnessed or studied a north easterly storm at the harbour.

‘This poses a potential health and safety risk, yet the applicants have persisted in proposing five large residences on the site,’ contends BHPS. The further two apartments of 160sq m are also proposed at the end of the quay; these are two metres higher than the initial proposal and twice as high as the existing vacated ‘Western Marine’.

This building is ‘in serious conflict with the existing

architecture and scale and would extend 3.7m closer to the edge of the quay.’

The plan also includes a craft boat workshop (416 sq m) and a small single storey structure for community use.

Local objectors say their concerns have been largely ignored by the developers.

‘The application pays virtually no attention to the

special character, heritage and history of this small working harbour and would cause enormous disruption to the existing small businesses, residents, small boat owners, numerous harbour users and tourists.’

Over 230 observations were lodged on the Dún Laoghaire / Rathdown Co Co website by the February 6 deadline.

Dun Laoghaire/ Rathdown Country Development Plan 2016-2022 Specific Local Objectives Bulloch Harbour: That any residential development shall form part of a mixed-use scheme which will include commercial marine-based activity and public waterbased recreational uses and shall have regard to the special nature of the area in terms of the height, scale, architecture and density of built form.’

Built heritage Bullock harbour dates back to the twelfth century when the granite structure was fortified for trade and fishing purposes by Cistercian Monks, and today is still used as a local centre for fishing and marine tourism activities.

The harbour is listed in the ‘Record of Protected Structures’ and is included in the ‘Built Heritage Strategy’ of the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Development Plan 2016-2022 which states Council policy is to: ‘Encourage and promote the retention of features of the County’s coastal heritage where these contribute to the character of the area, and have regard to these items identified in the Coastal Architecture Heritage Survey when assessing any development proposals.’

Land use Zoning Objectives Zoning objective W ‘To provide for waterfront development and harbour related uses’ Open for Consideration: Areas which may be permitted where the Planning Authority is satisfied that the proposed development would be compatible with the overall policies and objectives for the zone, would not have undesirable effects and would otherwise be consistent with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area. Uses which are temporary are open for consideration in all zones.

Advertisements and Advertising Structuresd, Church, Crèche/Nursery School, Discotheque/Nightclub, Doctor/ Dentist, Education, Enterprise Centred, Hotel/Motel, Office Based Industry, Offices 200sq.m to 1,000sq.md, Offices over 1,000sq.md, Public House, Recreational Buildings (Commercial), Residential, Residential Institution, Retirement Home, Science and Technology Based Industryd, Shop-Local, ShopNeighbourhood, ShopSpecialist, Travellers Accommodation.

2017 north-easterly storm batters Bulloch Harbour and artist impression of development proposal

d: Development related to marine activities

inshore ireland Spring 2018 25

Coastline News

Licence to mechanically harvest kelp out of line with spirit of Bantry Bay charter Gillian Mills

A

licence to mechanically harvest 752 hectares of kelp in Bantry Bay, West Cork, described as the largest ever granted in Irish or UK waters, has been met with widespread opposition from fishermen, conservationists and local interests.

Concern centres on a lack of adequate public consultation and notification, and the fact no Environmental Impact

Assessment was required.

Since the application was made in 2009, amendments were made to the legislation in 2014 regarding type and characteristic of projects that require EIA. In March 2014, biotechnology company BioAtlantis was granted a Foreshore Licence to harvest ‘specific quantities of specific species of seaweed’ on a rotational basis. The licenced area is split into five harvesting zones, to be harvested on a four-year rotation with a stand by zone (99 hectares) only to

be harvested if weather is adverse.

At a second public in February that attracted over 250 attendees, the people of Bantry were adamant in their determination to do ‘whatever it takes’ to have the licence granted to BioAtlantis Aquamarine Ltd suspended until a proper study is conducted into the effects of mechanical harvesting.

Underwater archaeologist Tomás O’Sullivan said government’s “lack of care and foresight” in reviewing and approving the licence

was deeply troubling.

“Their short-sighted approach threatens not only the kelp forests of Bantry Bay but all of Ireland’s marine environments.”

Kelp provides homes and protection to many inshore fish species. Removing the kelp, even for one or two years, “will see a major decline in not only lobster, crab and shrimp, but also in the thousands of other species that rely on this seaweed,” remarked inshore fisherman Kieran O’Shea.

Declan Bevan, a member of the Bantry Bay Protect our Native Kelp Forest, noted the “total lack of respect” by government, planners

and marine developers for marine life, habitats and protected species.

“They do not adhere to best practice and all hide behind outdated laws.”

To grant a licence for an “experimental mechanical harvesting of 1860 acres of kelp in Bantry bay “shows how little all parties involved understand or appreciate the value of what they will destroy.”

Our report on the first public meeting can viewed at: http://www.inshoreireland.com/News/ licence-to-mechanicallyharvest-kelp-out-of-linewith-spirit-of-bantry-baycharter.html

Inshore Ireland invited the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if he would reconsider the licence granted to BioAtlantis, based on the weight of public concern and which could possible under Section 12.1&2 of the licence, as outlined by Michael Collins TD in a Dáil debate.

No response was received at the time of going to press.

26 inshore ireland Spring 2018

Book Review

Before the Tide Went Out

A

short while ago I was spending a few days in Faithlegg Hotel in Waterford and had just read this book.

Not far down the road was

the village of Cheekpoint, the beating heart of the fishing community featured in the story. I went there, curious to see the place at first-hand. The tide was out.

I recognised the names of some of the boats lying in the mud. The pub was there too but closed at that time.

The harbour was sturdy but no fishing was going on.

COMPETITION WINNERS The Last Voyage of the Leinster Michael Twomey, Blarney, Co Cork Ellen Markie, Bere Island, Co Cork

So Far, So Good Fiona Friel, Patrick Cullen, Co Dublin

A Cornish Fisherman’s Irish Diary Mary Marshall, Knockboy, Co Waterford Eileen O’Sullivan, Blackrock Co Cork

Thanks to everyone who entered and congratulations to our competition winners!

Those golden days of fishing were finished; however it was easy to imagine all the happenings described so vividly in the book. In those days, Cheekpoint was a vibrant fishing village in a strategic marine location.

Everything rang true.

Generations of families had fished there. The author Andrew Doherty’s family was one, and the book is dedicated to his father, Bob Doherty, and to Andrew’s brother Joseph, who was tragically drowned when aged only eight years.

A love of the fishing life is evident in the writing, with great respect shown for the people involved in what was often a hard and dangerous occupation.

The details of the life are meticulously observed, in writing that is both engaging and enjoyable. The time spent repairing nets, and the advances to modern types of nets are expertly told.

A big community spirit pervaded Cheekpoint in its halcyon days, with everyone living there depending on the fishing for a living and supporting each other for the common good. This spirit and the history of the area are well described in heartfelt prose, tinged with nostalgia for times past.

Andrew Doherty himself fished with his father from an early age, obviously inheriting his father’s love of fishing in an area where the rivers Suir and Barrow enter the sea after combining earlier at New Ross.

Young boys and girls liked

to get out on a boat with the fishermen. It was an adventure. One escapade where his father accidentally landed an enormous conger eel and had great difficulty removing it from the boat has stayed in the author’s memory all his life.

As in all things marine, danger always lurked, and Andrew Doherty’s own experiences after following in the fishing footsteps of his father make compulsive reading. The writer’s detailed account of the varied aspects of a fisherman’s life is told with honesty and a love of the life that is at all times present in the writing.

The demise of Cheekpoint as a fishing village is well documented towards the end of the book when even the author had to find alternate employment to support his family. The big question is why and how this could happen, and poses many questions about the marine policies, or lack of them, of government policy.

As in many areas of government, the marine area suffers from short-term strategies. What happened to Cheekpoint it appears, could and should have been avoided. But maybe it is possible to revive the area to its former glory, the author maintains.

Anyone with an interest in the history of a traditional Irish fishing village and wishing to help restore its fortunes should read this book.

Brian Grehan, Dublin

inshore ireland Spring 2018 27

Outside Ireland

Heavy ingestion of microplastics by deep-water fish in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean

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study carried out by marine scientists at NUI Galway have found that 73% of 233 deep water fish from the Northwest Atlantic Ocean have ingested plastic particles, making it one of the highest reported frequencies of microplastic occurrence in fish worldwide.

As part of the study, the scientists participated in a transatlantic crossing on the Marine Institute’s Celtic Explorer research vessel during which they retrieved dead, deep-water fish from midwater trawls.

The species retrieved included Spotted Lanternfish; Glacier Lanternfish; Whitespotted Lanternfish; Rakery Beaconlamp; Stout Sawpalate and Scaly Dragonfish, from depths of 600m using large fishing nets. They ranged in size from the smallest species — Glacier Lantern at 3.5 centimetres to the largest species, the Stout Sawpalate at 59 centimetres.

Microplastic source The fish were inspected at the University’s Ryan Institute for microplastics in their stomach contents.

Microplastics are small plastic fragments that commonly originate from the breakdown of larger plastic items entering our oceans.

Other sources include waste-water effluents carrying plastic fibres from clothing and microbeads from personal care products.

Due to their low density, most of these microplastics float at the sea surface.

Alina Wieczorek, lead author of the study and PhD candidate from the School of Natural Sciences and Ryan Institute explained that deep-water fish migrate to the surface at

night to feed on plankton (microscope animals) and that this was likely when they were exposed to the microplastics.

“One of the inspected Spotted Lanternfish (4.5 centimetres), had 13 microplastics extracted from its stomach contents. The identified microplastics were mostly fibres, commonly blue and black in colour.

Some only measured 50 microns in length.”

Research Previous studies have shown that microplastics can be ingested by many marine animals — from zooplankton, to worms and fishes — and that ingestion may cause internal physical damage, inflammation of intestines, reduced feeding and other effects.

Many of these ingested microplastics have associated additives such as colourants and flame retardants which are added during the production process, along with pollutants that are adsorbed onto the microplastics from the sea.

Dr Tom Doyle, co-author of the study, remarked that while the level of ingestion of microplastics directly by fish or in the fish on which they feed was of concern, equally was the remoteness of their location, thousands of kilometres from land and 600 metres down deep in our ocean.

“Indeed, it’s worrying to think that our daily activities, such as washing our synthetic clothes in our washing machines, results in billions of microplastics entering our oceans through our waste water stream that may eventually end up in these deep sea fishes.”

The fish were sampled from a warm core eddy, which is a circular current in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean.

Similar to ocean gyres, these currents are now thought to accumulate microplastics and that the sampled fish may have originated from a particularly polluted patch of the Atlantic Ocean.

“This would explain why we recorded one of the highest abundances of microplastics in fishes so

far, and we plan to further investigate the impacts of microplastics on organisms in the open ocean,” added Alina Wieczorek.

The research was carried out within the PLASTOX project, a European collaborative effort to investigate impacts of microplastics in the marine

environment, under the JPI Oceans framework and supported by the iCRAG (Irish Centre for Research in Applied Geoscience) project, funded by Science Foundation Ireland.

The research is published in the international peerreviewed journal Frontiers in Marine Science.

Deep water fish, Gonostoma denudatum, 13 centimetres in size.

Photo: Alina Wieczorek, NUI Galway

St. Michael’s Pier, Harbour Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, Ireland Email: info@hic.ie Website: www. harbourcampus.com

Membership To access the campus 24/7, a monthly membership applies. (No lease, no rates, no utility bill or management charges etc.). Also available is 10 GB broadband, 150 car-parking spaces and unlimited free coffee and fruit water.

Single space ‘drop in’ from €295 pm, 24 hour access Single space dedicated desk from €495 pm, 24 hour access Small team space (2-10) private, glass partitioned from €795 pm. Please ask to see floor plans Large team space (12-20) private, glass partitioned from €4,800 pm

Deep water Spotted Lanternfish, 4.5 centimetres in size.

Photo: Hannah Brownlow, NUI Galway

Meeting rooms choice of 15 from €20 per hour

28 inshore ireland Spring 2018

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THE NAME SAYS IT ALL

WEAR ONE NEAR OR ON WATER. ALWAYS.

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