Posted: November 1, 2024
For centuries, Cork has been a safe harbour from storms, rough seas, and pirates. However, in 2024, the concept of a safe harbour has evolved. This was evident on Friday during the
MTU Smart Maritime Cybersecurity Challenge, where the focus shifted to defending Ireland’s harbours and ports against cyber threats. The event featured a cyber attack
simulation on a virtualised maritime port, hosted in MTU’s new Cyber Security Lab and conducted on its state-of-the-art cyber range infrastructure.
The simulation, designed by Airbus, mirrored a real-world cyber attack, paralysing a port’s IT systems and a ship at its entrance, effectively blocking all traffic. Teams from the Irish Naval
Service, National Maritime College, MTU, Cyber Innovate, and WorldSkills Ireland National Champions competed to identify the cyber attack’s entry points, regain control of the vessel,
and assist Europol in arresting the hacker group’s leader.
The Need for Maritime Cybersecurity Skills Irish ports are vital hubs for shipping and maritime operations, making skills in maritime cybersecurity essential to future-proof Ireland’s infrastructure. The simulated cyber attack provided an invaluable opportunity to build real-world, applicable skills to address these growing threats.
MTU Leading the Way in Cybersecurity Training
Photo: Pauline Dennigan
The MTU Smart Maritime Cybersecurity Challenge was held in MTU’s new Cyber Security Lab, which was visited last week by Tánaiste Micheál Martin as part of the Ireland-Wales
Forum 2024. Six teams competed, each featuring MTU staff, researchers, and students.
“Hosting the MTU Smart Maritime Cybersecurity Challenge in our new Cyber Security Lab showcased the strength of our programmes and the exceptional talent emerging from Cork,”
said Dr. Donna O’Shea, Chair of Cybersecurity at Munster Technological University (MTU).
As a leader in cybersecurity education, MTU runs initiatives such as Cyber Skills, Cyber Explore, and the €7M Cyber Innovate project. Cork’s reputation as Ireland’s cyber security
hub is bolstered by MTU’s graduates, a key reason why many national and international companies have established a presence in the region.
MTU also features the Cyber Range, a state-of-the-art platform unique in Ireland, which enables simulated cyber-attacks on virtual organisations. “At MTU, we are dedicated to
advancing cyber security through cutting-edge education and research.” said Dr. George O’Mahony from MTU “This cutting-edge facility provides invaluable training for students,
researchers, and industry professionals, allowing them to build critical skills without risking real-world damage or outages.”
Dr. O’Mahony used the Cyber Range to train and mentor the Irish cybersecurity team that won Gold at the WorldSkills Global Skills Challenge 2024.
Event Highlights
The MTU Smart Maritime Cybersecurity Challenge provided a powerful demonstration of the importance of cybersecurity in Ireland’s maritime sector.
Prize Winner Details
The winning team comprised a mixture of Naval service, MTU student, NMCI staff and Cyber Innovate scholars.
Stephanie Wallace Chavanne, Harry Dunne, Oskar Wolak, George O’Mahony, Tim McSweeney, Wiktor Owczarek and David Dennehy
The Maritime Challenge is part of an event in the lead up to the Smart Maritime & Offshore Wind Event on the 11th of November at the National Maritime College of Ireland in Cork.
The event will start at 9:30am. https://www.cyberskills.ie/explore/events/join-us-at-thesmart-maritime–offshore-wind-event-on-the-11th-ofnovember.html
Contact Details:
Catherine Wilson is the media contact for this press release
Mobile: +353 87 693 2561
Email: Catherine.Wilson@MTU.ie
Photographs with captions are located here:
Photographer: Barry O’Sullivan
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LDFFx-6sAif_Ou-xPzvMenWZr3iYeAk2
News coverage on gold medal win
https://www.mtu.ie/news/worldskills-global-skills-challenge-2024/
Sign Up to our Newsletter
Click Here
Posted: October 18, 2024
PRESS RELEASE
Friday, 4th October 2024
National Maritime College of Ireland marks 20th anniversary
Paul Hegarty, Head of NMCI, Tánaiste Micheál Martin, President of MTU Maggie Cusack and Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science of Ireland Patrick O’Donovan TD looking at a model of the MV Arklow while attending a special event to mark the 20th anniversary of the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI). Photo Credit: Darragh Kane
The National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI), one of Munster Technological University’s (MTU) six campuses and a strategic partnership between MTU and the Irish Naval Service, marks its 20th anniversary today (04.10.2024) with a special event at its campus in Ringaskiddy in Cork.
The NMCI provides maritime education and training to meet the current and future needs of the State across the maritime sector, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes in Nautical Science, Marine Engineering, Marine Electrical Engineering, Supply Chain Management and Maritime Operations. The NMCI is a purpose-built facility with advanced bridge and engine room simulators, including specialist facilities such as an environmental pool, fire training unit, technical workshops and operational engine room. The NMCI is also the only recognised training centre for the RNLI in Ireland.
Today’s anniversary event was attended by An Tánaiste, Micheál Martin T.D., and Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Patrick O’Donovan, T.D.
Addressing the celebration, An Tánaiste Micheál Martin T.D., said: “I’m delighted to attend today’s 20th anniversary celebrations given that, as Minister for Education, I was involved in the process that led to the NMCI’s establishment. It was a major investment in maritime education at that time and I’m pleased to see that it’s gone from strength to strength over that 20 years.
The multi-million euro investment in the simulator suite further demonstrates our commitment to the NMCI. This institution has been, and continues to be, a critical asset in maintaining our Defence Forces’ readiness and operational effectiveness. To date, 13,500 Naval Service personnel have attended the college, developing their skills and gaining invaluable qualifications.”
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Patrick O’Donovan T.D. said: “I am delighted to be part of this milestone event that marks the 20th Anniversary of the National Maritime College of Ireland. The NMCI has provided Maritime Education and Training to meet the national need, having trained over 80,000 students. I am looking forward to at least another 20 years of the NMCI delivering for the maritime workforce of this island nation.”
Also speaking at the 20th anniversary event today was Dr Paul Hegarty, Head of the NMCI, who said: “The National Maritime College of Ireland has gone from strength to strength since we were founded 20 years ago. As an island nation, the maritime industry is key to facilitating economic growth and prosperity. Connecting us with our trading partners, it is a vital industry that is experiencing annual growth, with vast professional opportunities open to our students once they graduate. Our graduates are employed globally, working in a variety of roles including officers and seafarers in the transit and supply chain industry, renewable energy and oil and gas industries, amongst others.
Dr. Paul Hegarty, Head of NMCI speaking at a special event to mark the 20th anniversary of the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) Photo Darragh Kane
“Harnessing renewable energy such as offshore wind energy projects is a key Government climate target, and one that requires a skilled maritime workforce. As we move into our next decade, NMCI will play a key role in helping Ireland meet its future energy demands, and we are ready to embrace future challenges and create new opportunities.
“Similarly, we look forward to continuing our strong tradition of delivering core maritime education and training while evolving to reflect the technological and digital transition occurring across the maritime sector. Having an agile maritime sector will be a strategic enabler for the future national economy.”
Speaking at the launch, President of MTU, Professor Maggie Cusack said: “NMCI’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration over the past two decades has been integral to Ireland’s maritime industry and has positioned it at the forefront of international maritime education. NMCI’s success is a testament to the vision, dedication, and collaboration of all those involved.
“As we mark this important milestone, we look forward to continuing our strong partnership with industry and government, ensuring that NMCI remains a hub for cutting-edge maritime research and development, and that our graduates are well-equipped to lead in this critical sector. Together, we will reimagine the vision set out for the NMCI, enhancing a national institution that will enable Ireland’s maritime future.”
Jimmy Deenihan, Chairperson of MTU’s Governing Body said: “We are immensely proud to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the National Maritime College of Ireland, a pioneering institution that has become a global leader in maritime education and training. As Chair of the Governing Body, I am confident that NMCI will continue to thrive and expand its influence, contributing significantly to the future of the maritime industry and the broader economy. We look forward to supporting its continued growth and impact for many more years to come.”
At the celebratory event organisations such as the Irish Coast Guard and the Irish Naval Service welcomed guests by showcasing their lifeboats at the NMCI.
Photo: Darragh Kane
Further information about the NMCI is available here: https://www.nmci.ie/
ENDS
Contact: Niall Cowley, We The People, email: mtu-pr@wtp.ie; 083-8354976
About the NMCI
The NMCI is a purpose-built College on a 10-acre campus and is located 18km from Cork city in Ringaskiddy. It provides training and education for the Merchant Shipping Industry, and the non-military needs of the Irish Naval Service. The NMCI provides education and training services of the highest quality and includes degree programmes in Nautical Science, Marine Engineering, Marine Electrotechnology, and Supply Chain & Logistics. Specialist spaces including survival facilities, seamanship workshop, fire-fighting/damage control, jetty and lifeboat facilities and ship engine room are provided. The College also provides modern simulation equipment in the areas of navigation, bridge training, communications, engineering machinery operations, liquid cargo handling/damage control and vessel traffic systems.
About MTU
Munster Technological University is the southwest’s newest technological university consisting of six campuses across Cork and Kerry. The University has a student body of 18,000. It is a leader in higher education both regionally and internationally through the provision of a wide range of programmes ranging from apprenticeships and undergraduate degrees to Master’s and PhDs.
Sign Up to our Newsletter
Click Here
Posted: May 13, 2024
The National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) and SeaBot Maritime (Ireland) have signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on integrating complex systems with specialised skills for the maritime workforce. This partnership aims to position Ireland as a global leader in advanced maritime training. SeaBot Maritime, based at the National Oceanography Centre in the United Kingdom, is the world’s premier provider of smart remote operations training in Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) operations. The company’s internationally recognised training programmes attract delegates from around the globe. The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency also recognises SeaBot Maritime’s training, further solidifying their reputation in the industry.
The partnership between SeaBot Maritime and NMCI underscores the crucial role human professionals play in harnessing the potential of technological advancements across defence and commercial maritime sectors. Organisations seeking cutting-edge training programmes that equip the maritime workforce with the skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex and technology-driven industry.
Dr. Paul Hegarty, Head of the National Maritime College of Ireland, commented on the collaboration, stating: “We are thrilled to join forces with SeaBot Maritime to bring these cutting-edge courses to the Irish maritime community. This collaboration highlights our commitment to providing top-tier education that meets the evolving needs of the industry. By combining our expertise with SeaBot’s innovative approach, we aim to empower professionals with the skills and insights necessary to thrive in the era of maritime autonomy.”
Gordon Meadow, CEO of SeaBot Maritime added, “Our partnership with NMCI represents a significant milestone in our mission to support the maritime industry’s adoption of advanced technologies. By working together, we can ensure that the workforce is prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.” Course delivery under this partnership is scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2025, marking an exciting new chapter in maritime education and training in Ireland.
For more information about NMCI and SeaBot Maritime’s collaboration, please contact training@seabotmaritime.com
-ENDS
About NMCI:
The National Maritime College of Ireland is a world-leading maritime education and training institution, offering a range of degree and master courses, including professional short courses to support the maritime industry’s needs.
About SeaBot Maritime:
SeaBot Maritime is the global leader in smart remote operations training for Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) operations, with a proven track record of delivering internationally recognised training programs.
Sign Up to our Newsletter
Click Here
Posted: November 17, 2023
Press Release
NMCI’s Seafarer’s Conference 2024 Announced
‘Realising Ireland’s Maritime Ambition’
Issued 16th November 2023
The National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) has announced its third annual Seafarers’ Conference ‘Realising Ireland’s Maritime Ambition’, which will take place on 22 February 2024 in the Castletroy Park Hotel in Co. Limerick.
The conference, sponsored by Simply Blue Group, will bring together representatives from Government Departments, maritime industry, supply chain workforce, and training & education institutions both nationally and internationally to explore the opportunities to support and grow the fishing and offshore wind industries in Ireland. Considering the climate crisis, Ireland’s ambition for offshore renewable energy is large. Equally, considering the biodiversity crisis and the importance of food security, the ambition for sustainable fishing and seafood is of central importance to Ireland’s coastal communities and beyond. As humankind looks seaward for solutions the necessity to plot a coexistent future at sea is of central importance. Ireland will need to prepare its maritime industry’s capability and capacity beyond anything that it has achieved to date if it is to realise its ambition.
Panel chairs Captain Brian Fitzgerald, Director of External Affairs and Stakeholder Liaison, Simply Blue Group; Commander Roberta O’Brien, Associate Head of College, NMCI; Dr. Paul Hegarty, Head of College, NMCI; and Peter Coyle, Chair Marine Renewable Industry Association will lead discussions on topics such as Enabling Ireland’s Offshore Renewable Energy Ambition; Enabling Ireland’s Fishing Industry Ambition; The International Experience of Meeting Maritime Ambition ; and What Will Success Look Like in ten years’ time – 2034; with contributions from a broad range of leading experts on each topic, followed by individual presentations.
Speaking at the announcement of the 2024 conference, Niall Collins T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science said: “Ireland needs to support and generate employment in our offshore industries, ensuring that our vitally important sustainable seafood industry thrives in parallel with meeting climate action targets from the development of offshore renewable energies, protecting biodiversity in our oceans, and delivering suitable further and higher education programmes, while supporting and enhancing the skills needed to promote these sectors. The annual NMCI Seafarers’ Conference is an ideal platform for sharing ideas and practical solutions to help these sectors grow and thrive.”
Dr. Paul Hegarty, Head of College, NMCI commented:“The National Maritime College of Ireland, supported by Simply Blue Group, is delighted to once again host Ireland’s maritime stakeholders at our third annual Seafarers’ Conference, in Limerick. The provision of maritime education, training and skills will be central tenets for Ireland’s ability to realise its ambition across the maritime economy. I very much look forward to welcoming participants in person and online and once again to engage in conversations around our shared maritime future on this island nation.”
Captain Brian Fitzgerald, Director of External Affairs and Stakeholder Liaison, Simply Blue Group, said: “The NMCI Seafarers’ Conference is an important forum for coming together and encouraging open, expert discussion on the challenges and opportunities for the fishing industry, the offshore renewable energy industry and relevant Government Departments with a view to plotting the way forward to a sustainable and coexistent future.”
To register to attend this conference in-person see here:
In-Person https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/757653210147?aff=oddtdtcreator
Virtual/Remote https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/757833148347?aff=oddtdtcreator
ENDS
For further information please contact:
Nuala Buttner, Q4PR
Sara Mackeown, Group Communications Director, Simply Blue Group
Email: sara.mackeown@simplybluegroup.com
Sign Up to our Newsletter
Click Here
Posted: February 24, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
The National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) will host a hybrid conference/webinar on Friday 4 March 2022 entitled ‘Our Offshore Renewable Energy Opportunity – Is Ireland Ready?’. The conference, sponsored by Simply Blue Group, will bring together representatives from across Ireland’s maritime and supply chain workforce to explore their preparedness to the Offshore renewables’ opportunity.
Capt Brian FitzGerald, Simply Blue Group, Dr Val Cummins, Simply Blue Group, Michael McGrath, Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Cormac Gebruers, Head of College, NMCI and Mark O’Reilly, Fishery Liaisons Officer at the launch of the conference ‘Our Offshore Renewable Energy Opportunity – Is Ireland Ready?’.
The conference will seek specifically to put the spotlight on the qualifications and certifications for the fishing industry to ensure it is fit for the dual purpose of keeping fishermen fishing, while simultaneously ensuring that our coastal communities mariners and infrastructure are best placed to contribute to and benefit from this developing maritime industry.
Minister for Agriculture and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue will open the event, which will be Chaired by Feargal Keane from RTE Radio 1 programme ‘Seascapes’. Speakers include Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland, Dr Alan Power, Assistant Principal, Labour Market and Skills Unit, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, as well as Dr Val Cummins, Simply Blue Group, Damien Turner (IS&WFPO), Wind Europe, and a representative from BIM will participate.
Among the topics for discussion are the Policy Regime for Renewable Energy; the Expert Group on Future Workforce Skills Report on the Low Carbon Economy; A Developer Case Study – Floating Offshore Wind off Ireland’s Coasts; Co-existence of Offshore Renewable Energy with the Fishing Industry; and the Future opportunities for Ireland’s Fishing Industry.
Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Michael McGrath TD said: “The Government is committed to Ireland achieving its ambitious 2030 targets of generating 5GW of offshore wind and 80% renewables as a critical element of our national strategy to address climate change. The enactment of the Maritime Area Planning Bill will be central to this strategy. Of equal importance will be ensuring we have the requisite skills in the maritime and supply chain workforce to realise the full potential of this exciting opportunity for our coastal communities. This conference, bringing together a wide range of stakeholders will be an excellent showcase for the potential of this rapidly evolving sector.”
Speaking about the event, Captain Brian Fitzgerald, Director of External Affairs and Stakeholder Liaison, Simply Blue Group said “As Ireland struggles to meet the challenges of climate change, and fishing communities struggle with an unknown future, offshore renewable energy developments will have a far greater chance of delivering a sustainable future for all, including the incentivization of our youth to get involved, if the solutions are co-created. Ireland needs its best team on the field.”
Cormac Gebruers, Head of College, NMCI, said “We look forward to hosting this significant discussion for the maritime community. We hope the event will awaken Ireland’s mariners to an exciting and co-existing future that sees a thriving and growing fishing industry working in harmony with Ireland meeting its climate action targets.”
Mark O’Reilly, MD Fishery Liaisons said “The stakeholders most affected by Ireland’s development of its ocean wealth are those in our fishing industry and associated coastal communities. It is well known that they face increasing challenges and fears for the future. In the areas suitable for offshore wind development, nobody knows the sea and the seabed better than the fishers that work there. The sensible approach is for the industry and developers to work together to harness the possibilities from offshore wind.”
To attend this conference in-person or online please contact events@simplybluegroup.com Full programme available here
ENDS
Sign Up to our Newsletter
Click Here
reply
retweet
favorite
Connect with NMCIS