Ireland Celebrates Ocean Economy’s Role in Livelihoods and Innovation

A majestic ship sails through turbulent waters under a dramatic sky, symbolizing Ireland's celebration of the ocean economy and its pivotal role in fostering livelihoods and innovation.

Galway, Ireland – 27 May 2021

As part of the national Oceans of Learning campaign, the Marine Institute of Ireland has launched a new suite of digital resources and multimedia content that underscores the essential role the ocean plays in Ireland’s economy and the sustainability of its coastal communities.

The week’s focus, under the theme Our Ocean: Our Livelihoods, highlights how Ireland’s marine resources are central to supporting employment, innovation, and regional development. The campaign includes a new podcast episode, short films, educational videos, and curated news features—all accessible via the Marine Institute’s website.

A Vital Contributor to the National Economy

Ireland’s ocean economy generates an annual turnover of approximately €5.8 billion, directly supporting over 31,000 full-time jobs, primarily within coastal communities. Established sectors—led by shipping, maritime transport, tourism, and seafood production—account for 93% of the total marine turnover. According to Bord Iascaigh Mhara, the seafood industry alone contributed €1.1 billion in consumption, net exports, and investment in 2020.

The country’s marine territory—ten times larger than its landmass—positions Ireland as a strategic player in global marine markets. In addition to traditional sectors, Ireland is witnessing growth in emerging blue economy industries such as marine biotechnology, ocean energy, marine ICT, and advanced coastal tourism.

Toward a Sustainable Marine Future

Charlie McConalogue T.D., Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, emphasized the Government’s commitment to sustainable marine resource management under the new national programme Our Shared Future. The initiative follows the earlier cross-government marine plan Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth, which significantly increased institutional focus on the marine economy.

“The future of Ireland's marine sector and our coastal communities will depend on the sustainable management of this precious resource,” the Minister stated.

Supporting Innovation and Local Communities

The Marine Ireland Industry Network (MIIN) continues to play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration between marine enterprises, academia, and government agencies. The network aims to enhance Ireland’s global competitiveness in marine innovation and exports.

Mick Gillooly, Joint Acting CEO at the Marine Institute, noted:

“Our ocean plays an important role in our economy through sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, ports and shipping, technology, tourism and marine renewable energy. Many communities, especially coastal ones, depend on our ocean wealth for employment and well-being.”

Diverse Voices and Emerging Marine Sectors

The second episode of the Oceans of Learning podcast, hosted by marine scientist Finn van der Aar, features notable voices from across Ireland’s marine ecosystem. Guests include Tahlia Britton, the first female diver in the Irish Naval Service, and Patricia Comiskey of SEAI, who speaks on the burgeoning marine renewable energy sector. Also featured is Tracey Ryan, herbal alchemist and MD of Codex Beauty Ireland, who shares insights into the expanding marine biotech and cosmetics industry.

Spotlight on Seaweed: A Traditional Resource with Modern Value

This week’s campaign also shines a spotlight on seaweed harvesting, a long-standing tradition in coastal Ireland. In partnership with Teagasc and Seavite, the Marine Institute explores seaweed’s applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and skincare. The campaign highlights how seaweed represents not only a historical livelihood but a growing opportunity within the bioeconomy.

About The Aqua Times

The Aqua Times is a European maritime intelligence platform covering sustainable ocean policy, coastal economies, shipping innovation, port infrastructure, marine technologies, and the evolving blue economy.