WEST CORK tour operators will trial a new initiative aimed at protecting the country’s marine wildlife over the coming months under a new government scheme.

Up to 30 tourist outlets which operate off the coast of Cork and Kerry will abide by a new Code of Practice launched by Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan.

It aims to minimise or eliminate harmful disturbance to sensitive wildlife and support sustainable and responsible wildlife watching operations off the southwest coast.

Activities including noise, presence of vessels and personal watercraft, the irresponsible use of drones and visitor pressure are all listed as activities which can cause disturbance to marine wildlife.

The new Code of Conduct sets out preferred modes of approaching marine species including whales, dolphins, seals, seabirds, basking sharks and turtles.

Minister O’Sullivan launched the initiative last week after meeting with a group of boat tour operators who helped to develop it along with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Minister O’Sullivan said: ‘The whale watching off the southwest coast can be world class. Encounters with ocean giants like fin whales and humpback whales aren’t unusual, and there’s also a chance to see other species like basking sharks and grey seals.

‘But with the growth in eco-tourism and wildlife tourism, it’s important that we emphasise how this can be done responsibly.

‘The Code of Conduct strikes a balance between delivering world class wildlife experiences on the water while also ensuring that the species themselves are protected.

‘Marine tourism is essential to the local economy in these rural areas, particularly during the summer months, and as a former volunteer whale-watching guide I fully believe that it is possible to have amazing encounters with these species at a safe distance.

‘We must ensure that our amazing marine wildlife will continue to breed and feed around our coasts, and this code of conduct is a great example of how we can protect nature and support the marine tourism sector at the same time.’

The code includes recommended speeds, distance and time limits when observing particular species from boat tours. It describes the behaviours of these species when they are experiencing disturbance and highlights times when they may be especially vulnerable, for example during breeding season.

Around 30 boat tour operators will adopt the voluntary code and the National Parks and Wildlife Service will engage with those involved in the pilot phase later in the year.

The Minister added: ‘Simple actions can have a huge impact on the safety and future of these species – such as keeping our distance, especially during breeding season. If there is a mother and calf, boats must not come between them.

‘Animals should not be disturbed while feeding. Breeding birds must not be disrupted.

‘While the code has been developed with tour operators, it can be put into practice by all of us who love to watch wildlife – whether in Baltimore or around the Blaskets.’