IOLN Shared Island & Ocean Strandhill Regional Meeting 12/6/26. Panel 1 discussion

This is a recording of the panel discussion "Currents of the Past, Voyages of the Future", moderated by Dr. Donald Griffin of Fair Seas, at the Irish Ocean Literacy Network's Regional Meeting in Strandhill (12 June 2026). This discussion explores Strandhill's marine identity through the perspectives of community leaders and practitioners working across the marine, environmental, and development sectors. Panelists reflect on their personal connections to the ocean, the importance of coastal heritage, and the evolving relationship between communities and the sea. The conversation highlights the need to balance sustainable economic opportunities with environmental protection, the role of local communities in driving positive change, and the importance of engaging future generations to build a stronger culture of marine stewardship and ocean literacy. Panelists include: Seamus McGoldrick (Sligo Surf Experience and author of Waking Maeve Ruth Hanniffy (Sligo County Council) Brian Parle (Ocean Awareness) Imelda McCarron (Western Development Commission) The IOLN's Strandhill event brought together voices from across the marine and maritime sectors, including arts, heritage, grassroots groups, research, NGOs, industry, and tourism, to strengthen ocean literacy in practice and policy. The question "How does life on the edge of the Atlantic shape our wellbeing?" provided the theme for exploring marine identity in the region. The Shared Island & Ocean series of Regional Meetings is funded by the Shared Island Civic Society Fund.