Campaign group holds free information event in Clare town

ONE LOCAL campaign group has ‘expressed disappointment’ at lacking legislation around the protection of Irish waters.

Fair Seas is now calling on the government to publish a Bill to manage Marine Protected Areas (MPA) as soon as possible. The organisation estimates that €55 million will be needed to fund MPA designation and ongoing management until 2030. 

Approximately €7 million would be required over the next 12 months to reach the target of fully protecting 10% of Ireland’s ocean and seas, as found in Fair Sea’s Sustainably Financing Ireland's Marine Protected Area Network report. 

Donal Griffin, Marine Policy Officer with Fair Seas said: “The Dáil is now in recess until September, which means that it will be several months before we see any progress.

“Time is running out for Ireland to meet its targets to protect 30% of our seas and ocean by 2030 and research shows that full protection of the marine ecosystem would be cheaper, and more effective, than partial protection.

“That is why we’re calling for 10% of Ireland’s seas to be fully protected from activities that damage the habitats, wildlife and natural processes.”

The comments come ahead of a special public event in Kilrush to celebrate the rich waters off the South West coast. 

The free event takes place at Shannon Dolphin Centre, Merchants Quay, Kilrush from 6pm to 8pm on Friday, August 4. 

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Education and Outreach Officer with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Sibeál Regan, said: “This year, the waters from Kenmare Bay in Kerry to Loop Head in Clare were named Ireland’s first Hope Spot. 

“Although small, at only 1.37% of our overall marine area, these waters support huge biodiversity including the highest densities of minke and humpback whales. 

“Effectively protecting this upwelling area, teeming with life, is critical to ensuring a healthy sea.”