Minister O’Sullivan Visits Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere
On 7 July 2026, Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere was delighted to welcome Minister for Heritage, Culture and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, on a visit to Dún Laoghaire and Dalkey Island to experience first-hand some of the conservation initiatives taking place across the Biosphere.
Joined by members of the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Biodiversity Team, Anne Murray and Martina O’Brien, and Dún Laoghaire Harbour Master Tim Ryan, the visit provided an opportunity to showcase the rich biodiversity of Dublin Bay and discuss the collaborative efforts underway to protect and enhance it.
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Exploring Dalkey Island’s Natural Heritage
Travelling by boat to the spectacular Dalkey Island, the group observed an impressive array of wildlife, including terns, guillemots and compass jellyfish, while taking in the island’s unique coastal landscape.
Discussions focused on the ongoing conservation work being undertaken to safeguard the island’s habitats and species, including habitat management measures, fencing projects, invasive species and rat control programmes, and engagement with local tourism operators to promote responsible access and wildlife protection.
The Role of Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere
The visit also provided an opportunity to highlight the importance of Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere as a living laboratory for conservation, research, education and community engagement.
Conversations explored how the Biosphere can contribute to Ireland's nature restoration ambitions by supporting biodiversity recovery, fostering collaborative environmental stewardship, and creating opportunities for people to connect with nature in meaningful and lasting ways.
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Our visit concluded with a stop at the @greenoceanfoundation oyster restoration project in Dún Laoghaire Harbour. An open discussion was had on the history of oysters in Dublin city and the importance of oyster habitat restoration in supporting marine biodiversity and improving ecosystem health.
Thank You!
We would like to sincerely thank Minister O’Sullivan for taking the time to visit Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere and for his interest in the conservation and restoration work taking place across the Bay.
A special thank you also goes to GOAT Boat Tours, whose support enabled us to experience Dublin Bay from the water and provided the perfect vantage point from which to appreciate the area's remarkable natural and cultural heritage.
Through continued collaboration, we can ensure that Dublin Bay remains a thriving landscape for nature, wildlife and people for generations to come.
