Public consultation demonstrates strong support for expansion of Marine Protected Areas

• the Programme for Government target of 30% of Irish waters to be protected by 2030 as part of the MPA network was supported; while the current level of protection (at approximately 2%) was not considered sufficient
• 93% of respondents support the inclusion of existing conservation sites into the national MPA network
• 91% support the key principles for the ongoing MPA process
• respondents noted information and data gaps along with deficits in education around marine protection
• respondents called for urgent action, based on evidence, along with increased research and resourcing, in order to protect our marine life and also the benefits to the economy and society that come from having a diverse and productive marine environment

“Many valuable views and perspectives, covering all stakeholders and the public in general, have been highlighted through this public consultation. The strong support for the MPA process, expressed through these submissions, is a positive indication that stakeholders and the wider public are keenly interested in having a clean, healthy, diverse and productive marine environment. I thank all of those who made a submission for their time, their insights and their substantive input. This is an urgent issue and my department is making strides in the protection of our maritime area. In December the Maritime Area Planning Bill, which represents the biggest reform of marine governance since the foundation of the State, was enacted. We are also progressing the establishment of the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) as a matter of urgency.”

“It is heartening to see such widespread support for the expansion of Ireland’s Marine Protected Area Network, which will give vital protection to much-loved marine species, habitats and features and support the sustainable use of our seas. Over the course of this consultation, my department has engaged with many groups such as environmental organisations, the fisheries sector and those living in coastal areas. I was really pleased to be able to meet with many of them myself over the summer – from Donegal to Waterford to West Cork to Kerry. It’s vitally important that we listen and engage positively with all stakeholders as we develop MPA legislation, and this is very much what we’re focussed on at the moment. I’d like to thank everyone who contributed to the consultation, and look forward to continuing the conversation over the coming months and years as we work to ensure that the benefits of increased protection for marine life are enjoyed by everyone.”

The full Independent Analysis and Report on Marine Protected Area (MPA) Public Consultation Submissions can be found at this location and below: