Ireland’s Digital Maritime Needs Explored at NMCI Seafarers' Conference
March 23rd 2026
David Noronha (Head of Future Networks & Strategic Offshore Planning, EirGrid), Capt. Ann Pletschke (Nautical Institute), William Priestley (Director of Maritime Transport, Department of Transport), Dr. Hazel Murray (Chair of Cyber Skills, Munster Technological University), Vice Admiral Mark Mellett (Rtd.) and David Kiely (EU Maritime Affairs Attaché) panel speakers at the NMCI Seafarers’ Conference 2026, held at the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI), Ringaskiddy, Cork, on 19 March 2026.
Photo: Joleen Cronin
Leaders from across Ireland’s maritime, energy and education sectors gathered at the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) for the fifth annual NMCI Seafarers’ Conference, a key national forum exploring the future of Ireland’s maritime and offshore energy landscape.
Hosted in partnership with Munster Technological University, the event was held under the theme “Charting a Digital Ocean Economy – Enabled by Skills, Data and Technology,” highlighting the critical role NMCI plays in preparing Ireland’s maritime workforce for a rapidly evolving, technology-driven sector.
Conference discussions focussed on how Ireland can develop the skills base, technological capabilities and policy frameworks required to support a rapidly evolving maritime sector, particularly in the context of offshore renewable energy and digital transformation. As technological change accelerates, data is increasingly recognised as a critical driver of maritime innovation, often described as the “currency” of the ocean economy.
At the same time, energy security and climate challenges continue to shape national priorities. Ireland’s significant offshore wind potential presents a major opportunity to strengthen energy independence while building a sustainable ocean economy alongside traditional maritime industries. NMCI continues to lead in developing the skills, training and applied research needed to support this transition.
A central feature of the event was the opportunity for delegates to experience NMCI’s newly upgraded simulation facilities, representing an investment of approximately €11 million. These state-of-the-art bridge, engine room and rescue boat simulators reflect NMCI’s ongoing commitment to delivering world-class maritime education and training, equipping seafarers and offshore professionals with real-world, industry-ready skills.
Speaking at the conference, Professor Maggie Cusack, President of MTU, said:
“NMCI is a cornerstone of Ireland’s maritime capability. Its unique combination of education, training and industry engagement ensures that Ireland is well-positioned to respond to the opportunities and challenges of a changing ocean economy. This conference highlights the vital role NMCI plays in connecting stakeholders and shaping future skills.”
Captain Brian FitzGerald, Community Liaison Officer for the National Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP) for Offshore Renewable Energy, added:
“Ireland’s maritime sector is undergoing significant transformation as offshore renewable energy develops. Events like this are essential to foster collaboration and ensure we are prepared with the skills and partnerships needed for long-term success.”
The conference was originally announced in Quilty, Co. Clare by Timmy Dooley, Minister of State with responsibility for the Marine. It featured five thematic sessions addressing key topics including artificial intelligence, data, skills development and the future of Ireland’s maritime sector.
Speakers from across government, academia and industry participated, including representatives from the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, European Fisheries Control Agency, EirGrid, Marine Institute, Irish Maritime Development Office and the European Maritime Safety Agency.
A video address was delivered by Minister Dooley, with a closing address from Marian Harkin, Minister of State for Further Education, Apprenticeship, Construction and Climate Skills.
The conference was supported by a broad range of organisations across Ireland’s maritime sector. Main sponsors included MTU, NMCI Training Services and the Irish Naval Service, with additional support from Skillnet Offshore Wind Acedemy, the Irish Maritime Development Office, EirGrid, The Skipper Magazine and the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment.
ENDS
Pictured above are Fionn Curtis, Holland America Line, MTU President Professor Maggie Cusack and Capt. Brian Fitzgerald Community Liaison Officer for the National Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP) for ORE.
Photo: Joleen Cronin
Notes to Editors
For more information, please contact:
Deirdre Fitzgerald, Springboard Communications:
M: 085 206 4835| E: deirdre@springboardcommunications.ie
About MTU
Munster Technological University (MTU) is a multi-campus technological university serving the southwest of Ireland, with six campuses across Cork and Kerry and a student population of approximately 18,000. MTU provides a wide range of programmes from apprenticeships and undergraduate degrees to Masters and PhDs. With a strong focus on applied learning, research with impact, enterprise engagement and lifelong learning, MTU plays a central role in supporting regional development while maintaining a growing national and international profile.
