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Greater Skellig Coast named as 'hope spot' for endangered species

Greater Skellig Coast named as 'hope spot' for endangered species
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An area off the South West coast has been included in a list of 'hope spots' for endangered species.

The 'Greater Skellig Coast' has humpback whales, sharks, and sea bird colonies along its waters.

The area of the Atlantic - which stretches from Kenmare Bay, to Loop Head in County Clare - has now secured a spot on the international 'Mission Blue' list.

Waterford MEP, Grace O'Sullivan, is a former Greenpeace activist.

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She says the accolade is the result of years of hard work.

"This is really on the back of the work of so many civil society groups so it's really a big achievement on their part," she said.

MEP O'Sullivan says it's a win for marine biodiversity.

The types of marine creatures in the area range from fin whales to puffins.

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"This is a place of real international importance in terms of marine biodiversity and it's very good for climate change because a healthy ocean means healthy possibility for a carbon sequestration," she said.

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