A third marine mammal observer (MMO) training programme is now open to graduates, final year undergraduates and postgraduate students in marine science or a related discipline.
The training comprises a mix of both classroom and field training over the course of three months which includes an offshore survival course at the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) in Cork.
The ESB is supporting the programme for the third time as part of Ireland’s offshore wind ambitions.
MMOs are specialist environmental consultants responsible for monitoring marine megafauna such as whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and basking sharks, during industry operations.
They assist developers comply with environmental regulations and guidelines, while the data collected by MMOs aids in evaluating the effectiveness of mitigation measures.
The aim of the programme is to support the development of marine ecology education and skills, helping successful applicants at the early stages of their careers in the marine environmental profession.
Since its inception in 2023, 11 participants have successfully completed the programme.
“Offshore wind will play a crucial role in helping Ireland achieve its climate targets, and we need to invest in people now to ensure we have the right skills and expertise for all elements of our projects,” Niru Dorrian, Senior Offshore Ecology Coordinator at ESB, said.
“As leaders in the transition to clean energy, it is important for developers like ESB to support the marine industry, and in particular future MMOs. Collaboration is key to a net-zero energy future, and we are grateful to the academic and industry organisations supporting our programme,”Dorrian said.
The programme is endorsed by The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) and the Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA).
Thomas Power, a 2023 programme participant, says the initiative has helped his career.
“The ESB MMO training programme was the perfect first step to a career in marine mammal and environmental mitigation,”Power said.
“ It opens the door in what can sometimes be a difficult career to start out in. The initial training and certifications required for MMO work are costly and the ESB funding allowed me to commit fully without the financial worry often attached,”he said.
Power said he would “absolutely recommend this programme to anyone thinking of a career in marine mammal mitigation, and, if awarded, to fully utilise the amazing opportunity” it offers.
Interested applicants should contact [email protected] for more information.
