The MV Shingle, a former smuggling vessel intercepted in 2014 with a cargo of 32 million cigarettes, was sunk off the coast of County Mayo to become Ireland's first artificial reef. This initiative, led by the local group Killala Bay Ships 2 Reef (KBS2R) in collaboration with the Revenue Commissioners and local councils, aims to boost marine biodiversity and attract diving tourism to the area. The ship's scuttling, which took place on Tuesday, marks the culmination of a project that began in 2008, costing approximately €2 million in maintenance and preparation. Local officials expect the reef to draw an additional 10,000 tourists annually and recover the investment within three years through increased tourism activities. The MV Shingle's transformation from a symbol of crime to an eco-friendly attraction exemplifies innovative reuse and community collaboration. Environmental concerns were raised by groups like Coast Watch Ireland, but the project is anticipated to enhance the local ecosystem.