Killary Fjord Shellfish has completed a €270,000 investment to increase mussel production and improve efficiency at its Connemara operation.
The Leenane-based company upgraded harvesting equipment and expanded its rope-grown mussel system in response to rising demand for Irish shellfish.
The project delivered higher yields, reduced fuel use and improved operational efficiency, the company said.
Funding support of €118,000 was secured under the Sustainable Aquaculture Scheme through the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, administered by Bord Iascaigh Mhara.
“This investment demonstrates how Irish aquaculture businesses are innovating to become more efficient and sustainable,” said BIM interim CEO Richard Donnelly.
“By adopting modern harvesting systems, the company has reduced operating costs and lowered its carbon footprint, while safeguarding employment and delivering high-quality seafood.”
Killary Fjord Shellfish is owned by Simon Kennedy and Kate O’Connor and operates from Killary Fjord, a 16km inlet on the Galway–Mayo border.
alt="Bagged bounty — Freshly harvested rope-grown mussels packed for market at Killary Fjord Shellfish, as new investment boosts output, efficiency and sustainable processing in Connemara
Kennedy said the investment reflects a long-term focus on sustainability. “Protecting the resource we rely on has always been central to how we operate,” he said.
“This upgrade allows us to modernise, reduce energy costs and work more efficiently while continuing to produce a premium Irish product.”
He added that the new equipment has improved safety and reduced downtime linked to maintenance.
The company continues to prioritise sustainable practices, using compostable cotton mesh for mussel bags, reusable rope systems and wooden packaging for oysters.
Killary Fjord Shellfish produces rope-grown blue mussels, oysters and clams, supplying restaurants along the Wild Atlantic Way and distributors across Ireland.
