Over 3,000 individuals have signed a petition expressing their objections to the approval of a mussel farm in Kinsale, Co Cork.

Residents in Kinsale are coming together on land and sea to demonstrate their opposition to the licensing of shellfish company, Woodstown Bay Shellfish Ltd, to establish the farm.

The Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine has given the green light to a 23-hectare bottom-culture mussel farm, leading to backlash from locals, environmentalists, and community groups.

The proposed farm is situated next to Dock Beach, prompting concerns among residents.

The protest will involve various watercraft including fishing vessels, sailing boats, paddle boards, kayaks, and swimmers.

The license was granted in May, allowing objectors a month to challenge the decision.

Donal Hayes, a resident of Kinsale, expressed disappointment in the planning decision, stating that it goes against the values of the community.

Cork County Councillors are planning to formally object to the approval of the project.

Residents are upset about the lack of public consultation and scrutiny of the ecological impact of the farm.

The Kinsale Swimmers group is particularly worried about dredging activities affecting water quality and the long-term impact of mussel faeces accumulation.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin defended the decision, highlighting the consultation process and public submissions involved.

Deputy Michael Collins criticized the process, citing transparency issues and environmental monitoring concerns.

Woodstown Bay Shellfish Ltd has been approached for a response.