New Marine Wildlife Code of Practice Launched for Cork and Kerry Tour Operators

A new voluntary Code of Practice aimed at protecting marine wildlife and promoting sustainable tourism has been launched in County Kerry, Ireland. The initiative, developed with input from the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group and Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, will be trialed by tour operators in Cork and Kerry over the coming months. It focuses on minimizing disturbance to sensitive species like whales, dolphins, seals, seabirds, basking sharks and turtles.

Addressing the Impact of Tourism

The Code of Practice addresses potential disturbances caused by activities such as noise from vessels and personal watercraft, irresponsible drone use, and excessive visitor pressure. Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan emphasized the importance of simple actions to safeguard these species, stating, “Simple actions can have a huge impact on the safety and future of these species.”

Protecting Vulnerable Marine Life

The waters off the coasts of Cork and Kerry are home to a diverse range of marine life, including fin whales, humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, grey seals, minke whales, and basking sharks. The initiative recognizes that sound is crucial for whale hunting, and excessive noise pollution can negatively impact their ability to find food. The southwest coast also boasts significant seabird breeding colonies, particularly on the Skellig Islands, where disturbance can lead to birds abandoning nests and failing to reproduce.

A Collaborative Approach

The Code of Practice was developed in consultation with local tour operators, including Mick Shearan of Blasket Islands Eco Marine Tours, who highlighted the need for regulations as the number of marine tours increases. “The Code of Practice is a decent start, because there’s been no real rules or regulations up to this,” Shearan said. He also noted observing changes in species populations over his 50 years of experience in the area, with some species disappearing while others, like humpback whales, have become more prevalent.

Dynamic Ecosystems and Long-Term Conservation

Shearan observed that basking shark sightings have fluctuated with salmon stocks, and humpback whale populations have increased significantly since 2005. He expressed concern about the potential impact of interference on vulnerable species like puffins, recalling the disappearance of Greenland White Fronted Geese and Arctic Terns from the area in the past. District Conservation Officer of the National Parks and Wildlife Service, William Hunt, underscored the importance of respecting the space needed by these animals, particularly during breeding season, while also allowing communities to share the spectacle of the wildlife.

Trial Period and Future Outlook

Currently, the Code of Practice is voluntary. Tour operators will implement it on a trial basis to assess its effectiveness and identify any necessary adjustments. The initiative aims to balance the growth of tourism with the long-term conservation of Ireland’s valuable marine ecosystems.