Applications are being sought for a business diploma with a “salty air taste” run by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) and the Institute of Technology (IT) Carlow.
The closing date is September 3rd for prospective participants in BIM’s higher diploma in business in fisheries and aquaculture.
The course, now in its fifth year, is designed for those interested in management, financial, research and development or regulatory roles in fisheries, aquaculture, seafood processing and related fields.
It may also appeal to those looking to start an aquaculture or fisheries business company or expand an existing company into new markets, BIM and IT Carlow IT.
As Dick Bates - from a well known Kilmore Quay fishing family - explains, the course is the only one in Ireland of its type at third level dealing with fisheries and aquaculture.
It is “more accessible than ever now all over the coast and the offshore islands, due to continuing online delivery”, Bates says.
“My dad was a fisherman from Kilmore Quay, who through circumstances of the time could not progress beyond primary education,” he says.
“I am immensely proud to be involved with the higher diploma in a voluntary capacity in my retirement. I think he would approve,” Bates says.
“I really believe in the transformative powers of education and believe that the way that the fisheries sector has been ignored by the third level institutions in Ireland for so long is not right. I also believe that training is no substitute for education,” Bates adds.
Entry requirements are NFQ Level 7 or level 8 Award or equivalent in a related discipline or relevant industry experience.
Organisers say consideration will also be given to applicants who do not hold level 7 QQI academic qualifications but who have extensive industry experience.
Currently, all modules are being taught remotely due to Covid -19 restrictions on Fridays and Saturdays every second week.
Funding for the course fee and subsistence costs may be available through here