BIM and University College Cork (UCC) have joined forces to drive sustainable innovation in the marine sector by developing the first ever Diploma in Seafood Innovation. This new part-time course will commence next October.
BIM and University College Cork (UCC) have joined forces to drive sustainable innovation in the marine sector by developing the first ever Diploma in Seafood Innovation. This new part-time course will commence next October.
The course aims to improve the skills of those who work in the industry and it includes training and education in Research and Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Each module has been designed to provide practical applied learning in new product development with each participant expected to develop new innovative products to bring to market.
The synergy between UCC and BIM’s Seafood Development Centre (SDC) in Clonakilty, Co. Cork has resulted in a practical and exciting course that will ultimately increase seafood innovation in Ireland.
Dr. Susan Steele, Innovation Co-Coordinator with BIM said; ‘The Irish Seafood Sector is expected to increase in both value and employment levels between now and 2020. Despite the recession, the sector is performing well and we have seen the results of this through the SDC. Innovation is essential for the future success of the seafood industry and this course will enable Irish seafood companies to develop their own in-house innovation. Focusing on innovating and adding value will secure a long term, competitive future for Irish seafood companies and is in line with smart growth outlined in the strategic document Food Harvest 2020’
Programme Manager at the Food Industry Training Unit, UCC, Maura Conway added; ‘This part-time course is flexible and designed to be delivered around the coastline providing access to all seafood companies. The content of the course is suited to those returning to education and supports from UCC and BIM will be available to participants’
Adding value to Irish seafood is a key strategic driver for BIM as Ireland’s Seafood Development Agency. The opening of BIM’s Seafood Development Centre in 2009 has encouraged significant uplift in new product development and innovation, with over 300 seafood companies availing of its services in 2011. Over 100 new seafood products with a total value of over €36 million have been launched to market to date from the centre.
For further information on the Diploma in Seafood Innovation please contact:
Maura Conway m.conway@ucc.ie tel. 021 490 3114 or
Mary McCarthy-Buckley m.mccarthybuckley@ucc.ie tel. 021 490 3363
Pictured above at the launch of Ireland’s First Diploma in Seafood Innovation are: Dr. Susan Steele, Innovation Coordinator, Seafood Development Centre, BIM; Martin Shanahan, Fishy Fishy Restaurant, Kinsale and Dr. Joe Kerry, School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University College Cork.
