Coastal Resilience: Community Power at Kilmore Quay

About 70 people gathered at the Stella Maris Centre to attend the Information event on how we can all protect Ballyteigue Burrow, an event that showcased the power of local action in protecting our precious dune systems. It forged a powerful connection between various groups and associations who share the same vision.

The day was dedicated to learning from successful models. We saw first hand how collaboration, networking, and partnership drive success, as demonstrated by the incredible work of the Tramore Eco Group and the Maharees Conservation Group.

Under the expert guidance of Jim Hurley (South Wexford Coast), Tomhaggard Clean Coast, SeaShore Explore, and Kilmore Quay Conservation Group demonstrated the importance of their local work, shared invaluable experiences, and showed how different community groups can unite to reach a common goal. The voices were unanimous: the health of our dune systems is inextricably linked to our community’s future.

The key takeaways reinforced the critical role of dunes:

• Coastal Barrier: Dunes serve as an essential coastal barrier against flooding.
• Ecological Buffer: They function as a vital ecological buffer, supporting a wide range of unique ecosystems.
• Resilience: Our social, economic, and cultural resilience is directly connected to the health of these natural sea defences.

Communities like ours in Kilmore Quay are actively choosing to protect, preserve, and enhance their local environment, creating new opportunities for growth rooted in respect and partnership.

We are so grateful to our fantastic speakers. A big THANK YOU to:
Therese Maddock, Seashore Explore
Ann Marie Kirwan, Tomhaggard Clean Coasts Group
Martha Farrell, Maharees Heritage and Conservation
Katriina Bent, Tramore Eco Group
Fiona McDermott, Bridgetown College
Jim Hurley, South Wexford Coast

We extend our gratitude to Wexford Biodiversity Officer Clare Goodwin for her support and to Cllr Leonard Kelly and Cllr Jim Codd for their attendance and encouragement. We’ve already met with NPWS officers for expert guidance and look forward to continued feedback from Wexford County Council as we move ahead!

We all left the event feeling elevated—a powerful message of hope for our coast and our community!