Open Day at Marine Institute Newport Facility Attracts Hundreds of Visitors

7th April 2023

Robert and Elvira look for insect and plankton life in samples collected in the rivers and lakes of the catchment during the Marine Institute’s Newport Open Day on Sunday 2 April

The Marine Institute welcomed over 400 visitors to its research facility in Newport, Co Mayo last Sunday 2 April for its special Open Day.

The research facility at Furnace in the Burrishoole Valley forms one of the greatest natural laboratories for studying migratory fish in Europe.

Visitors had the opportunity to tour the state-of-the-art facilities on offer, meet with researchers and scientists and hear about some of the exciting marine science research projects taking place at the site.

Rían and Justin presenting some deep-water fish species at the Newport Open Day 2023

The institute organised a series of interactive exhibitions which were designed to introduce visitors to some of its innovative work in areas including research vessel operations and oceanography, as well as fisheries and the marine environment.

A number of PhD candidates were also available to talk to students about their subject choices and potential careers in the marine sector.

Speaking about the event, Marine Institute chief executive Dr Paul Connolly said: “We are delighted that over 400 visitors availed of the opportunity to visit our Newport facility and see some of the innovative work that is being undertaken on site.

Robin, Mia, Faye and Rias at the scale model of the new RV Tom Crean on display during the Newport Open Day 2023

“It is so important that we raise awareness about the institute’s work and inspire communities on the importance of scientific research. A special word of thanks to our staff for their support and hard work in making the Open Day such a success.”

In addition to the public open day, the Marine Institute welcomed over 120 primary school pupils and their teachers earlier in the week for special tours.

Speaking on their visit, St Brendan’s National School in Kilmeena said: “It was fantastic! The children gained so much from it. They got to do some sampling in the labs, and see some deep-water fish species that had been captured during surveys onboard the RV Celtic Explorer and RV Tom Crean. They learned how weather data is recorded for Met Éireann. They saw fish and eels in a fish trap and salmon smolts that will be released in the next few weeks. What a great day! Thanks so much to all of the staff.”

Published in Marine Science

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Marine Institute

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