International conference underway as delegates from 16 countries gather at ATU Mayo
More than 180 conservationists, researchers and bird enthusiasts attend three-day event focused on protecting swift populations
More than 180 delegates from 16 countries have gathered in Castlebar this week for the 8th International Swift Conference, hosted by Atlantic Technological University in Mayo.
The three-day conference, running from May 27 to 29, is being held in association with Swift Conservation Ireland/Mayo, Mayo County Council, Fáilte Ireland, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Office of Public Works, alongside other supporting sponsors.
The conference was formally opened by Christopher O’Sullivan and attended by Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council Seán Carey and ATU President Orla Flynn.
Bringing together conservationists, ecologists, researchers, rehabilitators and bird enthusiasts from around the world, the conference focuses on the protection of swift species.
Opening the event, Minister Christopher O’Sullivan praised Mayo’s role in bird conservation and highlighted local community efforts to protect swift populations.
“Communities here in Co. Mayo are true leaders in swift conservation and research, through survey work, research, conservation and collaboration,” he said.
“The volunteer-led use of nest boxes throughout the county is making a real difference to the prospects of the swift population and helping to prevent its decline.”
Deirdre Garvey, Chair of the Green Campus initiative and Head of the Department of Environmental Humanities and Social Sciences at ATU, said delegates had travelled from across Europe, the United States and China.
“We are delighted to be hosting this international conference highlighting the conservation work that is having a real impact in Mayo and leading the way for Swift Conservation in Ireland,” she said.
The conference programme includes keynote contributions from award-winning filmmaker Eoin Warner, conservation innovator Brendan Dunford, artist and naturalist Gordon D’Arcy, Mayo Dark Skies Park Development Officer Georgia MacMillan and ATU research graduate Jarek Majukusiak.
Lynda Huxley said the ATU Mayo “Save Our Swifts” project, launched in 2011 under the Green Campus programme, had played a major role in promoting swift conservation nationwide.
Delegates will also travel along the Wild Atlantic Way to learn about conservation projects led by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, including Corncrake LIFE, Wild Atlantic Nature LIFE and Machair LIFE initiatives in Mayo.
Further details about the conference are available at Swift Mayo 2026 Conference.