Marine Institute Celebrates Europe's Maritime Heritage

As part of a series of pan-European Events to celebrate European Maritime Heritage Week, the Marine Institute hosted school tours (Schools to Sea) on board the national Marine Research Vessel Celtic Explorer in Killybegs on the 16th May 2008.

Over 150 students, from Niall Mor National School, Commons National School, Fintra National School and St Catherines Vocational School from Killybegs, Co Donegal attended the tours where scientists from the Marine Institute demonstrated the importance of seabed mapping, managing marine resources and tracking salmon at sea. The students also enjoyed a visit from the Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister), Mary Coughlan, TD.

Following the publication of An Integrated Maritime Policy for the European Union (10th October 2007), the Commission designated 20th May to be European Maritime Heritage Day and encourages Member States to celebrate their maritime heritage on this day each year. 

For further information on European Maritime Heritage Day visit the European Commission Maritime Affairs Webpage.