FAIR SEAS URGES GOVERNMENT TO TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION ON DELAYED MARINE PROTECTION LAWS

Fair Seas Urges Government to Take Immediate Action on Delayed Marine Protection Laws

A coalition of leading environmental non-governmental organisations and networks says the continued delay of critically important legislation to protect Ireland’s marine environment cannot continue.

Fair Seas is appearing before the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Fisheries and Maritime Affairs today (Tuesday, January 13th) to discuss Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The campaign group’s membership includes Irish Wildlife Trust, BirdWatch Ireland, Sustainable Water Network, Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Streamscapes, Irish Environmental Network and Coastwatch.

MPAs are areas of our seas and coasts designed to legally protect the habitats and species from activities that damage them. Ireland has committed to protecting 30% of its seas by 2030, however, less than 10% of Ireland’s seas are currently designated as protected and there are no adequate management plans in place for these areas.

Fair Seas Campaign Coordinator, Dr Dónal Griffin says, “The scientific evidence is clear, Ireland’s marine ecosystems face increasing pressure from climate change, habitat loss, overfishing and pollution and must be protected. Despite repeated expressions of intent by the Government, progress on MPA legislation has stalled and it doesn’t appear to be a genuine priority. It’s no further advanced than it was three years ago when we first appeared before an Oireachtas Committee to discuss the proposed standalone Bill. Now that a decision has been taken to amend existing maritime area planning legislation instead, progress made during 2022 and 2023 has effectively been lost pushing us even further behind.” 

Grace Carr, Marine Policy and Engagement Officer says, “Ireland faces a narrow and urgent window to put in place Marine Protected Area legislation that is credible, effective and capable of delivering for nature and society. The progress must be accelerated, and the forthcoming legislation must have strong and binding targets, a robust management framework, and high-quality stakeholder participation that includes our coastal communities. If we fail to act now, then the environmental, social and economic costs of further delays will be significant. We are ready to work constructively with the Committee, Government and all stakeholders to ensure Ireland delivers an MPA network that is effective, fair, and fit for the future.”

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Main Image: Dr Donal Griffin speaking at Leinster House. Photo © Conor Ó Mearáin