Leading ocean researchers, policymakers, innovators and industry representatives from across Europe and the wider Atlantic region gathered in Galway on Thursday (8 October) for the opening of Atlantic Summit Galway 2026, a flagship event of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Hosted by the Marine Institute, University of Galway and Atlantic Technological University, the two-day summit is bringing together international leaders in science, policy, education and industry to help shape Europe's future ocean research, innovation and skills agenda and strengthen cooperation across the Atlantic region.
Delegates from across disciplines, sectors and countries are examining the environmental, economic and geopolitical challenges facing the Atlantic and the communities that depend on it.
Under the theme “Advancing Europe’s Ocean Research, Innovation and Skills Agenda”, participants are exploring how international cooperation, scientific excellence and strategic investment in people, infrastructure and innovation can strengthen Europe’s competitiveness while supporting a sustainable and resilient ocean future.
Opening-day discussions underscored the critical role of ocean knowledge in addressing climate, economic and geopolitical challenges, while reinforcing Europe's ambition to remain a global leader in ocean science, innovation and sustainable blue growth.
Timmy Dooley, Minister of State with responsibility for Fisheries and the Marine, welcomed delegates to the summit and highlighted the importance of international cooperation, scientific knowledge and innovation in supporting a sustainable and resilient future for the Atlantic region.
The minister’s participation reflected Ireland's commitment to advancing ocean research, innovation and skills during its Presidency of the Council of the European Union, and to strengthening collaboration across governments, research organisations, industry and coastal communities in addressing shared ocean challenges.
From ocean knowledge to action
The Summit comes at an important time for European ocean policy, with discussions addressing the implementation of the EU Ocean Pact and the proposed Ocean Act, as well as future investment priorities for ocean research and innovation.
Dr Rick Officer, CEO of the Marine Institute said: “The Atlantic is one of Europe's greatest strategic assets. It sustains our environment, supports our economies, connects our communities and plays a critical role in addressing global challenges from climate change to food security and energy transition. The decisions we make today will shape the future health and productivity of our ocean for generations.
“Atlantic Summit Galway 2026 brings together the expertise, partnerships and ambition needed to turn knowledge into action, strengthen Europe’s ocean leadership and ensure the Atlantic continues to create opportunity, resilience and prosperity for society. Galway's position as a recognised centre of marine science and innovation makes it an ideal location for these important conversations about our shared future.”
Professor Frances Fahy, director of the Ryan Institute at University of Galway added: “As a university at the heart of Europe’s Atlantic region, we are proud to convene the partnerships, expertise and ambition needed to address some of the most pressing challenges facing our ocean. Atlantic Summit Galway 2026 reflects the vital role of higher education and research in generating the talent and knowledge that informs policy, drives innovation and delivers real-world solutions.
“By working together across borders and disciplines, we can help shape a healthier ocean and a more sustainable future for communities across the Atlantic and beyond.”
Dr Brendan Jennings, ATU’s chief officer for research, innovation and engagement said: “The future of the Atlantic region will be shaped not only by scientific discovery and technological innovation, but by people. Building the skills, talent and capabilities needed for a sustainable blue economy is essential if we are to create lasting economic opportunity while protecting our ocean environment.
“Atlantic Summit Galway 2026 demonstrates the power of collaboration across education, research, industry and government to deliver impact at regional, national and European level.”
Discussions will continue on Friday (9 October) focusing on how shared priorities can be translated into action through future collaboration, investment and policy development. The summit will conclude with a renewed commitment to strengthening Europe’s ocean research, innovation and skills ecosystem and to deepening cooperation across the Atlantic in support of a sustainable, resilient and prosperous ocean future.
