Pier investment a key part of marine strategy for Mayo

INVESTMENT in piers and harbours around the Mayo coast is critical to support the fishing industry and tourism.

That was the view expressed at a council strategic policy committee meeting where members were updated on a marine strategy being prepared for the county.

The strategy encompasses diverse sectors, from aquaculture to marine leisure, fishing to offshore energy, and climate change to data landing sites.

Head of marine development with Mayo County Council, Michael O'Boyle, gave an extensive presentation to members.

He set out how 10% of the country's aquaculture is generated in Clew Bay. It was about developing unique products and they were working with stakeholders and BIM to ensure environmental and economic sustainability.

Fishing in Mayo accounts for up to 2% of the national catch. The county has the youngest boat ownership in the country and the focus is on sustainability and developing infrastructure.

Seaweed is another market looking to expand for the high-end market. Currently we produce about 3,000 tons a year.

The development of a Blue Way is the focus for marine leisure, he said. On land, tourists want to learn about our resources and pristine environment, which could be tied in with the Wild Atlantic Way. And on the islands, the big issue was connectivity – physically, digitally and socially.

Off-shore energy is a developing sector, as is research and development with test sites becoming active in the coming years.

With climate change they needed to develop an integrated coastal management system.

Councillor Paul McNamara said many small piers and ports had not been invested in for for decades and the infrastructure has deteriorated. People on the Wild Atlantic Way are drawn to the water and these ports and their heritage, which would disappear if they didn't try to preserve it.

For the fishermen, many piers did not have infrastructure such as water, electricity and ladders for their boats. They had to upgrade these as without investment the industry would disappear.

Committee chairperson Councillor Mark Duffy said Mayo has incredible resources for renewable energy and he suggested the council appoint an energy officer to take on responsibility for projects in the county.