Challenges facing fishing industry in Limerick to be focus of national conference

A CONFERENCE which will focus on the challenges and opportunities which are now facing the fishing sector is set to take place in Limerick.

The National Maritime College of Ireland’s (NMCI) fourth annual Seafarers’ Conference will discuss the future of Ireland’s maritime economy.

Hosted by The Castletroy Park Hotel, the conference will take place on March 20.  

The conference aims to bring together key stakeholders, including representatives from Government Departments, the maritime industry, the supply chain workforce, as well as training and education institutions.

Dr. Paul Hegarty, Head of College at NMCI, added: “The National Maritime College of Ireland, in partnership with Simply Blue Group, is proud to host Ireland's maritime stakeholders at the fourth annual Seafarers’ Conference in Limerick. Maritime education, training and skill development will be fundamental to realising Ireland’s ambitions for its maritime economy. I look forward to welcoming participants both in person and online to discuss and shape the future for our seafarers,” said Dr. Hegarty.

Hugh Kelly, Co-Founder and CEO of Simply Blue Group, also emphasized the event’s importance: "The NMCI Seafarers’ Conference provides a vital forum for fostering open and informed discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing the fishing and offshore renewable energy sectors. By bringing together experts, industry leaders and policymakers, we can chart a path towards a sustainable and harmonious future for our seas," said Hugh.

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The theme of the conference focuses on recognising future seafarers and strengthening what skills they require to play their part in the offshore wind industry.

Panel sessions will take place to discuss multiple topics such as: what the future seafarer might look like, navigating Ireland's seafood and offshore renewable energy (ORE) ambition, what future maritime training and education institutions will look like, and what the future will hold.

Amid the global climate crisis, Ireland's offshore renewable energy plans are ambitious and demand swift action to achieve their goals.

Ireland must elevate its maritime industry’s capability and capacity to new levels in order to reach these important goals. 

For delegates wishing to attend the conference in-person, please register here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/nmci-seafarers-conference-2025-in-person-tickets-1144063317179

Online delegates can register here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/nmci-seafarers-conference-2025-virtual-tickets-1144071792529