Despite many controversies, salmon farming continues to have a significant economic benefit in Connemara as evidenced by the latest statistics.
It was a bumper year for the sector nationwide last year – which supports hundreds of jobs in Connemara.
2025 was the best year in the past decade for salmon farming in Ireland as regards production, with statistics showing a 30% increase in output nationally.
A significant part of the industry is located off the Connemara coast providing 630 jobs both directly and indirectly.
The industry also accounts for 1,552 part time jobs in the western region according to Bord Iascaigh Mhara.
The value of the tonnage produced in Connemara in 2025 is estimated at well over €30m. with the greater part of that of going on the export market.
However, the profits were hit by a 20% reduction in prices on the international markets in 2025 compared to previous years.
While salmon farming has been the subject of controversy over the decades it continues to be a much bigger money spinner than the yearly landings at Ros a Mhíl, the main fisheries harbour on the west coast.
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