New vision for Mayo's marine resources
A RENEWED focus is being placed on Mayo's marine resources with a focused marine strategy having been developed for the county.
The ambitious plan takes a collaborative approach, with the establishment of a stakeholder group, to be named Caibleadh Mhaigh Eo, taken from an old word used in north Mayo for voices from the sea.
The strategy outlines a transformative vision for developing a sustainable, resilient, and community-centred blue economy.
Strategic objectives include promoting awareness and identity of Mayo's maritime assets; harnessing economic potential in marine renewables, food, and tourism; enriching coastal communities through improved infrastructure and wellbeing; valuing the pristine marine environment and cultural heritage; and focusing on long-term specialities, including Ballina Quay and Westport Quay redevelopment, renewable energy, Local Food to Fork, Digital Harbour Killala, sustainable offshore islands, Safe Haven Ballyglass, marine bioresearch and development hub, North Mayo Blueway Blacksod and Achill maritime forum, among others.
Head of marine Michael O'Boyle said the strategy is a starting point and the next step will be to develop more detailed work plans, working closely with stakeholders, including the islands, who will be part of the forum.
Councillor Michael Loftus said harbours and piers are the bread and butter of the fishing industry and water activities, but many have deteriorated.
He noted investment in areas like Lacken, Kilcummin and Killala, and hoped they can keep that up.
On Killala Bay, he would love to see it become a national maritime area, which would keep the big fishing boats out, and let it go back to its natural fishing area, used by the local people.
Achill Councillor Paul McNamara said the strategy is long awaited, saying the coastline has been 'totally neglected', while its potential is 'enormous', which is down to funding. And a team needs to be put together to progress on the plan.
He highlighted the importance of the piers and said they have to rethink the strategy of what they can be turned into. A lot of their history has been forgotten and it needs to be reinvented and promoted.
They spoke many times about island communities but they weren't doing alot to enhance them the way we can. Achill, Clare Island, Inishturk and the Inishkeas have enormous potential.
He also highlighted the difference the new pontoon in Dugort had made, linking it with Blacksod, saying they need to think outside the box.
Cruise ships are another area they could tap into. Wouldn't it be great if one was to stop off at Ireland's biggest island, Achill.
On Inishkea, Councillor Gerry Coyle said the pier is ready to collapse and it's an emergency situation. Fantastic local operators provide tours but very soon they won't be able to land there.
Mr. O'Boyle said the Blaskets are the spiritual home in Kerry, similar to the Inishkeas. With Inishkea, they are working with national parks and the OPW to develop a way to move it forward.
The full draft strategy is available here.
* Published under the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme