General Queries
What is Seasearch?
Seasearch is a project for divers and snorkelers to record marine life in inshore Irish waters.
I’m a CMAS/PADI/BSAC diver can I record with Seasearch?
Yes – any suitably qualified diver can record with Seasearch.
There are minimum criteria for attending Seasearch dives and additionally when a club is hosting a Seasearch course or dive attendees are bound by the clubs rules.
I’m not a diver, will you train me up?
Seasearch Ireland is not a dive training organisation. It’s assumed everyone is trained to the standard required for the qualification they hold. If you’re interested in learning to SCUBA dive your local Dive Ireland club or PADI dive centre is your best bet.
What about gear?
We’re not a dive centre or a dive club, the only dive gear we own is the stuff we’re planning on wearing ourselves.
What about snorkelers?
You’re more than welcome. As a snorkeller or free diver, you can fill out a form any time you are out and about in the water.
I don’t like to get wet, can I still record?
Yes – the National Biodiversity Data Centre runs an amazing shore based progam called Explore Your Shore, Seasearch Ireland would be foolish to try and come up with something better. You are welcome to attend Seasearch online talks or in person workshops but they are primarily aimed at subtidal species and recording in the water. If in doubt, just ask.
Governance
Seasearch community
Seasearch Ireland is a smaller part of a larger Seasearch community that includes the Seasearch CIC (Community Interests Company) and Seasearch Scotland (a SCIO – Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation). While the various bodies may act somewhat independlty qualifications are recognised and data is shared. A Seasearch Steering group with representatives from the bodies, the general Seasearch community, key stakeholders and relevant experts are charged with maintaining consistency and standards on training and recording across the project as a whole.
What about Seasearch Ireland?
Seasearch Ireland is a volunteer group without a formal structure. The intention is to setup Seasearch Ireland as a not for profit company or a charity to better manage resources and get access to additional funding schemes.
I want no hand, act or part in this where does that leave me?
Any change to Seasearch goverance will not affect existing recorders. Records submitted by qualified Seasearch recorders will always be accepted.
I don’t have to sit through the Observer again do I?
No – anyone with existing qualifications will not have to requalify, pay a fee, do a funny dance, nothing.
About that…. I’ve lost my qualification book
If you need to check on your qualifications or get your Seasearch number fill in the form below.
Let’s say I don’t have a qualification book because I never qualified?
We will be running a free online Observer this year for anyone who previously completed a course but didn’t complete the qualification process or anyone who wants a refresher. Additionally refreshers can sit in on in person courses (subject to space).
Your questions? (sign up form is below this again)
A lot of information is being thrown at people. If you have a specific question you would like answered anonymously post it below and we will try, within reason, to answer here. If you have a specific question you’d like answered personally email SeasearchIreland@gmail.com
