Marine sector to double its share of GDP by 2030

Irish marine industries can exceed €6.4bn a year in turnover by 2020 and double their contribution to GDP to 2.4% by 2030, states a new national roadmap for the sector.

The Government’s strategy document ‘Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth’ is to be the focus of a high level industry conference on the ‘blue economy’ on July 10 in Ringaskiddy, Co Cork

The conference will focus on efforts to develop natural resources ranging from finfish, shellfish and seaweed aquaculture to renewable energy, and capitalising on Ireland’s position as a western gateway for shipping to Europe’s busiest seaports.