New Documentary Unveils Ireland’s Dolphins and Their Struggles

A new two-part documentary titled Dolphins – Wonders of the Ocean will premiere on RTE One on August 31, 2023, and September 7, 2023, highlighting the complex relationship between humans and dolphins in Irish waters, as well as the threats these marine mammals face. Over a span of 20 years, the documentary captures stunning natural history moments and reveals the increasing dangers that dolphins encounter in their habitats.

The project is the brainchild of Clare native Ken O’Sullivan, who transitioned from a corporate career to become a full-time underwater cameraman and wildlife filmmaker. His journey began with a solitary dolphin, affectionately named Dusty Springfield, who appeared off the Clare coast. “Dusty, whose real name was Mary O’Brien, had significant Irish connections, and her dying wish was to have her ashes scattered off the coast of the Cliffs of Moher,” O’Sullivan explained. This connection inspired him to document the life of the dolphin that shares her name.

Filmed along the coasts of Clare, Kerry, and Cork, this documentary initially aimed to be a single feature. However, the wealth of material compelled O’Sullivan to create a second episode. “People are surprised at the abundance and variety of dolphin species in our waters,” he noted. “There are eight species and thousands of individuals. Our temperate seas are among the most fertile on the planet.”

While popular culture often depicts dolphins as friendly and playful beings, O’Sullivan emphasizes that the reality is more complex. “Dolphins exhibit remarkable behaviors and are well-adapted to their environments, using acoustics as their primary sense. However, they inhabit a natural world that can be brutal, and violence is part of their lives,” he stated. Observers often marvel at their elegance and grace, especially when dolphins approach boats to ride at the bow before disappearing.

The documentary will also delve into the serious threats dolphins face in Irish waters. From entanglement in fishing nets to noise pollution from maritime traffic, these issues jeopardize their survival. O’Sullivan pointed out that thousands of dolphins are likely dying each year, yet limited research exists in Ireland to investigate the causes. “There is no government-sponsored post-mortem scheme to determine how and why our dolphins die,” he remarked. He referenced research conducted in France, which documented approximately 7,000 dolphin deaths last year alone, a number that dropped significantly when fishery closures were enacted.

O’Sullivan hopes that Dolphins – Wonders of the Ocean will foster greater awareness and understanding of the challenges dolphins face. “These animals are beautiful and exist right in our backyard,” he said. “Irish people often travel to places like South Africa or New Zealand for whale watching, but we have incredible biodiversity here along the West Coast, in areas like the Shannon Estuary. In Donegal, for instance, humpback whales have appeared for the last three summers.”

The documentary aims to enlighten viewers about the rich marine life surrounding Ireland and encourage local engagement with conservation efforts. “There is vast diversity here that we should celebrate,” O’Sullivan concluded, emphasizing the need for greater awareness of the marine environment.

Viewers can catch Dolphins – Wonders of the Ocean on RTE One at 6:30 PM on both premiere dates.