Ireland’s ‘blue economy’ making waves in jobs and growth

Our ocean economy achieved a turnover of €6.5bn in 2023, and supported in excess of 39,000 jobs

Marine Institute report highlights the ongoing resilience of Ireland’s marine industries in navigating global economic challenges and adapting to evolving policies on sustainability and climate action.  File picture: Andy Gibson

The lyrics from the 1960s ballad — ‘The sea, oh the sea, is a sure guarantee some hour we'll be free/Thank God we’re surrounded by water’ — carries a significant economic weight in the Ireland of 2025. 

Ireland’s ocean economy achieved a turnover of €6.5bn in 2023, contributing €2.7bn in gross value added and supporting in excess of 39,000 jobs.