Wexford, Ireland – 23rd Oct 2025 – With pupping season in full swing along Ireland’s coastline, Seal Rescue Ireland is calling on the public to give seals the space they need in a new short film starring Irish comedy favourites Justine Stafford, Karl Spain, and Jamie Sykes.
The 90-second comedy film, written by Stevie Rowing-Parker and directed by London-based filmmaker Daniel Liakh, delivers an important message with a humorous twist: if you see a seal on the shoreline, stay back and let it rest. If you think the seal needs help, then call their hotline.
Produced and funded independently by production company Chaser, the film aims to raise awareness of the dangers human disturbance poses to vulnerable seal pups.
Clara De Brún, Marketing & Communications Manager for Seal Rescue Ireland, said:
“Every year, well-meaning members of the public approach seal pups on the beach, not realising the harm it can cause. This film is a fun but vital reminder that keeping your distance can save a seal’s life.”
LIAKH says:
“Some people wonder whether it’s more horrifying to meet a bear or a stranger in the woods. If you’re a seal the answer is two strangers on a beach.”
Stevie Rowing-Parker adds:
“I often encounter seals while surfing where I live in Cornwall. They approach, have a little nosy then they swim away, making my day. That’s the most interaction humans should have. It should always be up to seals, not us.”
The film is now available to watch here: https://youtu.be/eglEloeNVqw
One of the biggest threats to seal pups’ survival is human disturbance. Remember, if a seal is looking at you, you are already too close! Please keep dogs on leads and remain at least 100m away. If you think a seal pup needs help, you can call Seal Rescue Ireland’s 24/7 Rescue Hotline on 087 1955 393.
A special thanks to Screen Wicklow and Wicklow County Council for their support!
Seal Rescue Ireland (SRI) is a charity organisation that operates the only seal rehabilitation facility in the Republic of Ireland, located in Courtown, Co. Wexford. With the ultimate goal of returning seals fit and healthy back to the wild, SRI rescues and rehabilitates sick, injured and orphaned Common and Grey Seal pups that would otherwise be neglected. This donation-based charity, established in 2010, runs active education, research and community outreach programmes in order to promote ocean conservation and sustainability to protect our seas and all life within. For more information about our work and how to get involved, please visit sealrescueireland.org
Still images and interviews with Seal Rescue Ireland, the cast, or the director are available on request.
Grey Seal Pup Alert!
Pupping season is here!
Please click the link below if you would like to support our operation costs for this new rescue season! Without the support and generosity of donors like you, our work would not be possible.