The Irish marine industry gathered at the Royal Cork Yacht Club in Crosshaven, Cork Harbour, on Monday, December 9th, for a pre-Christmas review of its activities in 2024.

A key topic on the agenda was the establishment of a new marine industry showcase event scheduled for 2025, as well as Ireland’s participation in Europe’s largest boat show, Boot Düsseldorf, taking place next January.

The meeting was chaired by Gerry Salmon of MGM Boats (pictured centre) and included notable attendees such as Ian O’Meara of Viking Marine, Cronan O’Donnell of POD Marine, Paal Janson of Dun Laoghaire Marina, Porick Murray of Pontoons Ireland, David O’Brien of Afloat, Mark Ring of Royal Cork, and James Kirwan of BJ Marine.

Additionally, the gathering featured a meetup with local marine businesses at the Crosshaven clubhouse.

This article originally appeared in Afloat.ie

Following a new agreement between the British Marine and the Irish Marine Federation (IMF), the first IMF member has taken advantage of this agreement to complete a British Marine-hosted course.

James Kirwan completed the Intermediate Marina Managers course, representing both the IMF and Greystones Harbour Marina, during the four-day programme at Hayling Island. This is seen as the first step in what is a fantastic opportunity for IMF members to access the British Marine training programme, which is widely regarded as the gold standard for marine businesses. The training programme covers all aspects of marine businesses.

At the Southampton Boat Show in September 2024, a delegation of board members from the Irish Marine Federation met with their British Marine Federation counterparts to explore the benefits of working closely together on various subjects. The goal was to provide the opportunity to support and strengthen Irish Marine businesses and, by doing so, improve the experience for those who use Irish waters.

Training became a focal point for a mutually beneficial arrangement and both the BMF and IMF are delighted to have this partnership up and running.

This article originally appeared in Afloat.ie