BioAtlantis is licenced to mechanically harvest kelp around the Bantry Bay area. However, despite the fiscal and employment potential and despite assurances from the company, considerable local concern remains about the impact on wildlife, livelihoods and the environment, writes Noel Baker.

IT is difficult to imagine that the after-dinner, residents’ lounge conversation among any group involved in how our seas’ resources are managed, exploited or shared would be a cheery, celebratory affair. 

With licences being secured and sought to mechanically harvest seaweed in Bantry Bay and parts of the west coast residents fear the damage may be irreparable, writes Louise Roseingrave.