Marine Protected Areas Legislation General Scheme “an important milestone” – Fair Seas. Fair Seas has welcomed the publication of the Heads of the Maritime Area Planning (Marine Protected Areas) (Amendment) Bill, describing it as an important milestone in Ireland’s efforts to better protect its marine environment.
However, the coalition of environmental NGOs and networks says the real work begins now to ensure the final legislation is as strong as possible and can effectively protect Ireland’s vital marine environment and the communities that rely on it.
The publication of the Heads of Bill, agreed by the Government this week, marks an important moment as it outlines the main principles of the new Marine Protected Area (MPA) legislation, which are being introduced as amendments to Ireland’s existing marine planning legislation.
Fair Seas will now carefully review and assess the proposals in detail and engage constructively with Government and stakeholders in the coming months.
MPAs are areas of our seas and coasts designed to legally protect and restore habitats, species and ecosystems. Ireland has committed to protecting 30% of its seas by 2030, however, less than 10% of Irish waters are currently designated as protected.
The group has long called for robust legislation to protect the seas around Ireland and says the publication of the Heads of Bill marks the beginning of an important new phase in the process.
Fair Seas Campaign Coordinator Dr Donal Griffin said:
“The publication of the Heads of Bill is very welcome. It marks the beginning of a process that we believe can bring about world class MPA legislation In Ireland, legislation that will provide for the establishment of a network of coherent and well managed MPAs in Ireland’s seas. But getting to 30% by 2030, with 10% of that strictly protected will require a lot of work from all stakeholders. Fair Seas looks forward to engaging fully in that process and drawing on the wealth of expertise and experience available in our partner organisations in Ireland and internationally. Healthy seas are essential for biodiversity, coastal communities and future generations. We look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure any new measures deliver meaningful protection of Ireland’s marine environment.”
The Fair Seas coalition was established in 2022. 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.
Image: Fair Seas Campaign Coordinator Dr Donal Griffin. Credit: Fair Seas