Ocean Literacy in Action: Hosted by the Shifting Tides Project in Partnership with the Irish Ocean Literacy Network (IOLN)
- Paul Meade
- Aug 6
- 2 min read
On July 7th, the Shifting Tides project, in partnership with the Irish Ocean Literacy Network (IOLN), hosted a vibrant day of creativity, discussion, and community-driven marine advocacy at the Dolmen Centre in Omeath, Co. Louth. Framed by the stunning backdrop of Carlingford Lough, the event brought together scientists, divers, and local residents to explore how citizen science, creative approaches, and cross-border collaboration can foster deeper connections to our coastal ecosystems.
We were delighted to welcome Dr. Nóirín Burke, Director of IOLN, who opened the day with reflections on the power of local engagement in ocean literacy. The morning continued with a short film overview of the Shifting Tides project and a lively panel on citizen science, featuring contributions from Dave Wall (National Biodiversity Data Centre), Lia Philcox (filmmaker and diver), Sandra Woods (Seasearch diver), and Claire Casey (Seasearch NI Coordinator). Their discussion emphasized how citizen-led initiatives and training - like the Seasearch programme supported by Shifting Tides - can empower individuals to take meaningful action beneath the waves. Lia, who brings a background in social anthropology and film, also introduced her documentary-in-progress on Carlingford’s scuba diving community.
After a screening of Body of Water, another Shifting Tides-supported film by Anna Konieczna, and a delicious locally sourced lunch by Jennifer Provan of Kitchenetta - with the added opportunity to taste oysters kindly gifted by Kian Louet-Feisser of Carlingford Oysters - attendees explored the project's pop-up art exhibition, featuring work by contributing artists from the Shifting Tides project.
The afternoon continued with a second panel, The Future of the Lough, hosted by Shifting Tides director Suzie Cahn. Speakers Dr. Sarah McLean (Loughs Agency) and Heidi McIlvenny (Queen’s University Belfast) shared insights into the complexities of marine planning, ecological restoration, habitat protection, and the role of inclusive, community-driven engagement.
The day concluded with a World Café discussion, launched by a thought-provoking question from a member of the new cross-border Lough Keepers network: “What is the plan for Carlingford Lough?”
Some participants had another chance to join Dave Wall for an Explore your Shore coastal walk, enriching the day's dialogue with a hands-on connection to the environment.
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