Loughs Agency welcomes delegation of Korean scientists to Derry

The Loughs Agency recently welcomed a delegation from Korea to the North West as part of a two-day workshop focusing on transboundary cooperation for sustainable ocean and coastal areas.

The workshop was organised and sponsored by Queen’s University Belfast and the Korea Maritime Institute, to discuss transboundary maritime issues in both the Korean peninsula and the island of Ireland.

The theme of the workshop was ‘Reflections on Transboundary Cooperation for Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Areas’, with the opening day in the prestigious Lanyon Building at Queen’s University Belfast incorporating speakers from a range of organisations, including Queen’s University Belfast, Loughs Agency the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Marine Institute, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) and Trinity College Dublin.

On day two, the Korean delegates visited Derry, where they explored Ebrington Square and the Peace Bridge, enjoyed some local cuisine and visited Loughs Agency’s Headquarters in Prehen.

There, the delegates engaged with Agency staff members, discussing the role and operational systems of Loughs Agency as a North South Implementation Body with responsibility for transboundary aquatic systems.

Sharon McMahon, Loughs Agency CEO, said: "I was privileged to have been part of the workshop and had the opportunity to welcome the Korean delegation to Derry to discuss the work and challenges that face Loughs Agency as a North South Implementation Body managing transboundary waters.

"We were delighted to be able to share valuable insights and information, further supporting transboundary cooperation, and continuous improvement of transboundary environmental and ecosystem-focused issues within our catchment areas and in particular within the two sea loughs.

"I sincerely hope the delegation found the visit to be beneficial and that it will help inform a maritime strategy for Korea."