Jennifer Whitmore, a Social Democrats TD for Wicklow, previously worked in ecology, marine science and environmental law
A Social Democrats TD has joined a great white shark expedition in a bid to establish if the species frequent Irish waters. Jennifer Whitmore, a TD for Wicklow, previously worked in ecology, marine science and environmental law.
She previously spent 10 years in Australia as a senior policy analyst, working with government ministers to develop environmental law, water management and energy policy and spent several years as a scientist with the Marine Institute.READ MORE: Labour leader Ivana Bacik distances herself from €336k Leinster House bike shed Now Ms Whitmore is joining an expedition led by Dr Nick Payne, of Trinity College Dublin’s School of Natural Sciences, and hosted by OCEARCH – a US shark research organisation."I am excited to be joining this group of Irish shark scientists for this important expedition, which hopes to find out if great whites visit Irish waters," she said. "Experts say there is every reason to believe that great white sharks may occasionally visit Irish waters and this important research will hopefully provide definitive confirmation of this. "The expedition also presents a valuable opportunity to learn more about the 40 or so shark species that live in our seas – and about the threats these magnificent creatures face from climate change, exploitative fishing practices and habitat destruction. "The sad reality is that scores of shark species in our waters are classified as endangered, critically endangered or vulnerable. We must do more to protect these amazing creatures – including enacting the Marine Protected Areas Bill. "Regrettably, the Government has dithered and delayed when it comes to moving forward with this legislation, which is imperilling our ability to meet off-shore wind energy targets and our obligation to protect 30 per cent of Ireland’s seas by 2030. "The general scheme of this legislation was first published in December 2022 and it beggars belief that nearly two years later, in the midst of a climate and biodiversity emergency, the Government has yet to enact such an important environmental measure." Ms Whitmore’s venture comes just several months after a severe medical emergency which saw her admitted to ICU for several days following June’s European and local elections. She later told the Irish Independent that she collapsed unconscious at her home following a burst aneurysm. Join the Irish Mirror’s breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive breaking news and the latest headlines direct to your phone. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
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