# Irish Ocean Literacy Network


## Posts

- [Attend the Online Launch of the Blue Education Framework](https://ioln.ie/launch-of-the-blue-education-framework/): The first policy workshop on the launch of the European Blue Education Framework is taking place on 19 January, 2026. Developed through the BlueLightS project, the Framework brings together core principles and enabling conditions to strengthen ocean and water literacy across European schools. This workshop will introduce the draft Framework and open a dialogue with key actors working on systems change, transformative education, and national strategies. The session will include perspectives from experts in climate action, education for sustainable development, and citizenship/STEM education, followed by an interactive discussion inviting reflections from all participants. Event details: 📅 19 January 2026🕑 10:00-11:30 […]
- [Strengthening Our Network: A Look Back at 2025 and Ahead to 2026](https://ioln.ie/strengthening-our-network-a-look-back-at-2025-and-ahead-to-2026/): The IOLN’s Vision is to build an Ocean Literate Society across the island of Ireland. In 2025, we turned that vision into action by focusing on one core theme: connection. It was a year defined by strengthening the ties between our Members, building capacities, and reaching wider audiences. Here is how our community moved forward in 2025, and where the tide will take us in 2026. 1. Building Our Network’s Capacity To better support our Members, we first needed to strengthen our own foundations. We significantly expanded our organisational capacity this year by welcoming Catherine McCann (Executive Officer) and Grace […]
- [A Coastal Christmas: The 2025 IOLN Gift Guide](https://ioln.ie/a-coastal-christmas-the-2025-ioln-gift-guide/): Our coasts and seas are a huge part of our identity across Ireland. They’re a source of inspiration, adventure, and calm.  With that in mind, we’ve gathered this guide to celebrate the brilliant creators, artists, and producers from all around the island who are inspired by the ocean. Whether you’re buying for a book lover, a foodie, or a wild swimmer, here are some fantastic ideas that bring a piece of our coast home.     Books Available in all good bookshops The Illustrated Encyclopedia of the Irish Seashore: A guide by Lucy Taylor, a Kerry-based marine biologist, and Linda […]
- [Cross-border Collaboration for Ocean Literacy – Highlights from Belfast](https://ioln.ie/cross-border-collaboration-for-ocean-literacy-highlights-from-belfast/): “What a fantastic networking event it was! So much good vibes and generous spirit to enable real change in our understanding of the seas and its heritage all across the island of Ireland”. Prof. Maxim Fomin, Ulster University    On 7th November, the Irish Ocean Literacy Network hosted a regional meeting at the Europa Hotel, Belfast. The theme was ‘Cross-border Collaboration for Ocean Literacy’. The event brought together a wide range of attendees, from grassroots community groups and artists to researchers and policymakers, to discuss the challenges of working across borders and share practical examples from the ground.  Heidi McIlvenny, […]
- [Ocean Literacy Skills, Collaboration, and Connection: A Day with the IOLN in Cork](https://ioln.ie/ocean-literacy-skills-collaboration-and-connection-a-day-with-the-ioln-in-cork/):  What do a river, a ball of string, an artist, and a boat builder have in common? They were all part of our recent Irish Ocean Literacy Network meeting in Cork, a fantastic day of sharing skills and strengthening our community.   Morning Session: Collaboration, Connection, and Curiosity The morning session launched the IOLN’s Training Links Network seminars, as funded by The Wheel. This Members-only series of expert-led seminars and peer-to-peer best practice sessions is designed to strengthen and enhance skills in the community and voluntary sector, with the topics identified by IOLN Members through a Training and Capacity Building […]
- [WORK WITH US! Job Vacancy at the Irish Ocean Literacy Network](https://ioln.ie/work-with-us-job-vacancy-at-the-irish-ocean-literacy-network/): Since its establishment in 2016 as an informal network, the Irish Ocean Literacy Network (IOLN) has brought together like-minded individuals and organisations who passionately believe in the importance of the seas and oceans to the island of Ireland and its citizens. The aim of the Network is to improve coordination, collaboration and capacity building of the island’s “Ocean Citizens” community, to help achieve a common vision: an Ocean Literate Society across the Island of Ireland. In December 2023, the IOLN was set up as a Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) to support the growth and evolution of the Network and […]
- [IOLN Activism Working Group – survey request](https://ioln.ie/ioln-activism-working-group-survey-request/): Can you help us? The Irish Ocean Literacy Network (IOLN) Regional Action and Activism Working Group is inviting ocean lovers to participate in a short survey aimed at understanding the types of ocean activism/activities across the island of Ireland, and identifying the common themes and motivations among groups.How do you get involved in working for our oceans, and what drives you to do this? And also – how can the IOLN support and build capacity for your group? We’d be very grateful if you’d take 10 minutes to complete our survey, or share it around your networks. Our goal is […]
- [MEP Maria Walsh, launches the EU BlueLightS programme in Ireland](https://ioln.ie/mep-maria-walsh-launches-the-eu-bluelights-programme-in-ireland/): MEP Maria Walsh, has this week launched the EU BlueLightS programme in Ireland funded by the EU Horizon Europe,  at the Marine Institute, with schools around Ireland – bringing the blue (ocean, rivers, and lakes) into classrooms. Congratulating Camden Education and the Marine Institute on this collaboration MEP Walsh highlighted the importance of bringing sciences, communications and creativity together to share key messages about climate change and well-being with the wider community. “It is wonderful to see the BlueLightS / Explorers Innovative projects providing schools with an opportunity to develop their skills in design, communications and creativity by introducing climate change topics […]
- [General Meetings, New Projects and Appointments, a Busy few months for the Irish Ocean Literacy Network](https://ioln.ie/general-meetings-new-projects-and-appointments-a-busy-few-months-for-the-irish-ocean-literacy-network/): The last three months have seen a lot of new activities and actions going on behind the scenes for the IOLN, and we’re using that as a excuse for our lack of posting! The IOLN membership drive began in earnest in Autumn last year, with 35 founding members stepping up to lead the way on Ocean Literacy in Ireland. With the help of Gillian Mills and ERINN Innovation, the IOLN contacted existing and new potential members to seek their support, and we would like to send a huge ‘Thank You’ to all of you who have lead the way. This […]
- [IOLN Regional Member’s Meeting – Wexford](https://ioln.ie/ioln-regional-members-meeting-wexford/): The third IOLN Regional Members’ Meeting of 2024 took place in the Stella Maris Centre, Kilmore Quay, Co. Wexford on October 11th. The event offered a welcomed chance to focus the discussion on changes facing the Southeast coast of Ireland. The Southeast is a great attraction for tourists and is rich in biodiversity, but is also impacted, more than other parts of the island, by plans to establish offshore wind farms and marine protected areas, as well as the negative impacts of climate change. The presentations by invited speakers, as well as the panel discussion in the afternoon, offered a unique […]

## Pages

- [Members](https://ioln.ie/members/): Members Hub COMING SOON Members Login Exclusive content hub for sharing resources and videos with members.  Become a member Of IOLN today Contact Us
- [Training Working Group](https://ioln.ie/training/): Training and Capacity Building Working Group Developing Skills and Expertise One of the main goals of the IOLN over the next three years is to enhance capacity and expertise of the IOLN Members through targeted training and skill development initiatives to ensure they have the critical mass, skills and knowledge necessary to achieve strategic goals. Thanks to funding from Training Links (The Wheel), we are running a series of expert-led seminars and peer-to-peer best practice sessions on campaigns and advocacy, finance and funding, developing practical skills and evaluating and building impact are designed to strengthen and enhance skills in the […]
- [Regional Activism](https://ioln.ie/regional-activism/): Regional Activism Working Group Building A Wave of ocean Connections   The vision of the IOLN is to have a thriving Network of ocean champions and organisations deeply engaged with ‘Ocean Literate’ local communities across the island by 203. The Regional Activism Working Group empowers local communities to become champions for ocean conservation by connecting them with network members to foster collaboration and support. This group would be inspired by the definition of ocean literacy as put forward by Dr Emma McKinley and support the regional objectives of the Irish National Biodiversity Action Plan (2024-27). To know more about this […]
- [Our Members](https://ioln.ie/our-members/): Our Members Easkey Britton Organisation Type: Individual Globe Facebook Instagram BIO Named an ‘Agent of Change’ by Surfer magazine in their special Ocean Edition, her work is deeply influenced by the ocean and the lessons learned pioneering women’s big-wave surfing in Ireland and the sport of surfing with women in Iran, which led her to be invited to give an inspiring TEDx talk: Just Add Surf. Her ground-breaking journey to Iran in 2013 introduced the sport of surfing to women and local communities and is featured in the award-winning documentary film, “Into the Sea”. Passionate about facilitating creative & collaborative […]
- [Membership](https://ioln.ie/membership/): Membership Be part of a Thriving All-Island Community of Ocean Champions Since becoming a CLG in November 2023, the IOLN has greater potential to play a catalytic role in bringing together Ocean Champions across the island of Ireland. As a leading force in Ocean Literacy within Europe and with a strong and active membership, we can respond to call to actions set out in global climate change and ocean policies and have a measurable impact. To do this, we need support to develop the IOLN. The IOLN is asking all “Ocean Champions” to join as members and in doing so become part […]
- [Events](https://ioln.ie/events/): Events Become a member Of IOLN today Contact Us
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- [Member News](https://ioln.ie/member-news/): Member News Become a member Of IOLN today Contact Us
- [IOLN News](https://ioln.ie/news/): IOLN News Become a member Of IOLN today Contact Us
- [Ocean Literacy](https://ioln.ie/ocean-literacy-resources/): ocean Literacy Ocean Literacy Principles & Fundamental Concepts There are seven Ocean Literacy principles which remain a work in progress; they reflect the global efforts to date in defining ocean literacy. Download the orginal ocean literacy concept and principles here.  Ocean Literacy Principle #1: The Earth has one big ocean with many features. Ocean Literacy Principle #2: The ocean and life in the ocean shape the features of Earth. Ocean Literacy Principle #3: The ocean is a major influence on weather and climate. Ocean Literacy Principle #4: The ocean made the Earth habitable. Ocean Literacy Principle #5: The ocean supports a great diversity of life […]
- [Education](https://ioln.ie/education/): Education Working Group Building A Wave of ocean Connections As an Island every school in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland is connected to the Ocean around our shores. Through National, European and International Programs, individuals, students, teachers, schools, community groups and organisations can connect to our marine world, and fellow projects and programmes who celebrate the ocean. The Irish Ocean Literacy Network set up a working group on Marine Education in 2024. As part of this group, IOLN members were invited to provide feedback on what programmes they are involved in, or aware of, and what actions they […]
- [Campaign](https://ioln.ie/campaign/): My Ocean Campaign What Does the Ocean mean To You? My Ocean is a dynamic, all-Ireland campaign that invites everyone living on or visiting the island of Ireland to explore and express their personal connection to the ocean. Whether it’s a place of work, recreation, memory, or inspiration – My Ocean is your platform to share what the ocean means to you. About The Campaign Running over three years, My Ocean is a grassroots initiative designed to raise ocean awareness and foster a deeper, more personal connection with Ireland’s surrounding seas. This campaign seeks to build a national tapestry of […]
- [Our-Work](https://ioln.ie/our-work/): Our Work My Ocean Campaign Running over three years, My Ocean is a grassroots initiative designed to raise ocean awareness and foster a deeper, more personal connection with Ireland’s surrounding seas. Learn More Projects TBC Learn More Education The Working Group Unites ocean educators to promote learning in all settings and works to integrate the ocean into the national curriculum. Learn More Regional Activism The Working Group empowers local communities to become champions for ocean conservation by connecting them with network members to foster collaboration and support. Learn More Training and Capacity Building The Working Group strengthens the skills and […]
- [Social Media](https://ioln.ie/social-media/): Social Media How to get more likes and shares engage audiences with increased Online Presence Learn About Our Social Media Marketing Strategy What’s Trending Now Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Quisque rhoncus nisi sed suscipit cursus. Donec porta metus porta, ullamcorper libero ut, viverra augue. Maecenas consequat, dolor eget pharetra imperdiet, dolor urna luctus urna, id porta tellus leo nec nisla. Mauris et volutpat sapien, facilisis eleifend felis. Phasellus rutrum purus risus, vel vestibulum sem commodo vitae. Fusce vel arcu quam. Nulla euismod a mi eu elentum. Mauris iaculis nec justo ac fermentum. Quisque quis enim sit […]
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- [About Us](https://ioln.ie/about-us/): Who We Are About Us Since its establishment in 2016, the Irish Ocean Literacy Network (IOLN) has brought together like-minded individuals and organisations who passionately believe in the importance of the seas and oceans to the island of Ireland and its citizens. Formally established as a company in 2023, the aim of the Network is to improve coordination, collaboration, and capacity building of the island’s ‘Ocean Citizens’ community to help achieve a common vision – an Ocean Literate Society across the Island of Ireland.  The Network consists of a broad and diverse range of members including NGOs, public bodies, research […]
- [Home](https://ioln.ie/): welcome to the Irish Ocean Literacy Network Building an Ocean Literate Society Across The Island Of Ireland Join Us Our Mission The mission of the Network is to cultivate and nurture a sustainable community of ocean literate citizens, enabling seamless collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the effective coordination of marine outreach and ocean literacy endeavours throughout the island. About Us The IOLN would like to acknowledge the generous support of the Marine Institute/Foras na Mara as Sponsors of the Network.  My Ocean My Ocean is a dynamic, all-Ireland campaign that invites everyone living on or visiting the island of Ireland to […]
- [Privacy Policy](https://ioln.ie/privacy-policy/): Who we are GENERAL DATA PROTECTION Guide for Irish Ocean Literacy Network. Our website address is: https://ioln.ie. Your Data is held under the seven principles of GDPR; Lawfulness, fairness and transparency Purpose limitation Data minimisation Accuracy Storage limitation Integrity and confidentiality (security) Accountability   The Basics We only collect the personal data required to provide you with information about events about the Irish Ocean Literacy Network. The data we collect is stored in a safe, secure manner. We will never provide your personal data to third parties for the purposes of marketing or advertising. We keep your data on file for as […]


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