Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), the Seafood Development Agency has announced the inaugural BIM Seafood Sector Awards.

The BIM Awards will seek to find the finest fishermen, fish farmers, processors and retailers in Ireland’s renowned seafood sector.

The awards opened for entrants today and the winners will be announced at a gala evening on November 17th in the Clayton Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin.

Chief Executive of BIM Tara McCarthy said: “The Irish seafood sector is comprised of some of the most interesting, innovative and driven people in business life. BIM are delighted to create an occasion to celebrate, highlight and promote the excellent people and enterprises working in this sector. I would urge as many people as possible to apply and help us acknowledge the truly exceptional work undertaken in this vibrant industry.”

The award categories are designed to focus on BIM’s four key strategic priorities for the development of the Irish seafood sector namely, skills, sustainability, innovation and competitiveness

Recognising the importance of upskilling and developing a career path in the sector; BIM will name the Student of the Year as well as the Young Fishmonger award.

There will be awards for Responsible Fisherman of the Year, Aquaculture Social and Environmental Award and the Green Processor Award.

Celebrating innovation across the industry will include the, Best New Fishing Practice Award, Innovation in Aquaculture Award and the Innovation in Seafood Processing Award.

Seafood leaders and entrepreneurs will be recognised for their competitive edge with the Fishing Enterprise of the Year, Aquaculture Enterprise of the Year and Seafood Entrepreneur Enterprise of the Year.