Marine Institute gets new chair

The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, has announced the appointment of Martin Sisk as chairperson of the Marine Institute.

Mr Sisk, a former solicitor and regulator, has served on a range of Government committees and brings what the Minister described as “a strong legal background and extensive experience” to the role. He will serve a five-year term.

Welcoming the appointment, Mr Heydon said the Marine Institute “is widely regarded and provides world-class scientific and technical advice to Government which helps inform policy and supports the sustainable development of Ireland’s marine resources”. He said Mr Sisk’s leadership would ensure the continuation of this work.

Minister of State for Fisheries and Marine, Timmy Dooley, also welcomed the appointment, highlighting the Marine Institute’s role in providing fish stock data, ocean and climate services, marine environmental monitoring and seabed mapping. “The sustainable development of Ireland’s seafood sector and the sustainable management of Ireland’s seas and oceans are dependent on the scientific advice provided by the Marine Institute,” he said.

The Marine Institute, established under the 1991 Marine Institute Act, is the State agency responsible for marine research, technology development and innovation. Its remit includes co-ordinating and promoting marine science, supporting policy development, and protecting the marine environment.