Government are looking for people to give their views on the process of expanding Ireland’s network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) before the Government’s public consultation ends on Friday, July 30th.

The Government aims to expand Ireland’s MPA network from 2.13% to 30% of Ireland’s maritime area by 2030.

Expanding Ireland’s MPA network will constitute a major change in marine environmental protection in Ireland. At present, there is no definition of an MPA in Irish law. Environmental protections under the Wildlife Acts only apply to the foreshore.

Details on the Public Consultation process can be found here

People can also provide submissions by email (marine.env@housing.gov.ie) or by post to:

MPA Public Consultation 2021

c/o Marine Environment,

Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

Newtown, Wexford, Y35 AP90.