Marine Conservation Planning in the Republic

of Ireland

Patrick Cross: 114221921

Email: 114221921@umail.ucc.ie

Primary Supervisor: Cathal O’Mahony (CMRC)

Secondary Supervisor: Dr. Debbie Chapman (UCC)

Module: GG6514

Abstract

The need to protect fragile marine ecosystems from negative

anthropogenic impacts was championed by scientists and

acknowledged by governments, in the latter half of the 20th century.

While the theory and application of marine conservation has

progressed since then, our oceans exist in an increasingly

precarious position, affected by the rapid expansion of human

populations, and the increasing pressures we place on our

surroundings. This review describes the current state of marine

conservation planning in the Republic of Ireland, highlighting

inherent strengths and weaknesses, contrasting Irelands system

against England and Scotland’s and providing recommendations for

the development of this sector in the future. A brief synopsis of the

development of global marine conservation and the historical

progress of Marine Protected Areas is provided alongside a

description of the Irish site designation process. Key documents are

critiqued and reviewed to support the completion of aims and

objectives, to provide context for the following discussion and to

allow comparison between Ireland and England/Scotland. The

methodological process is described, covering desktop research,

interview sessions and correspondence with stakeholders and the

creation of supporting visual material. Information gathered during

stakeholder interviews, supplemented by insight gained during the

research and review phases, are combined in the discussion and

used to create a list of recommendations for the advancement of

Irish marine conservation. In Ireland the creation of MPAs follows the

guidance of the EU Habitats Directive while in England and Scotland,

both the Habitats Directive and national policy are used to create

MPAs. This review highlights issues within Irelands interpretation

and implementation of EU legislation and the public and political

acceptance and ownership of the need for marine conservation. The

recommendations provided, focus on factors that are central to

Irelands SAC designation, management and monitoring effort but

also more expansive influences, such as the reintroduction of an

Irish Department of the Marine, dedicated ministerial position and

supporting policy.