The Fair Seas environmental group has expressed concerns over the Government’s perceived weakening commitment to crucial environmental laws. They cite the missed deadline for the release of a Bill that would establish protected marine areas (MPAs) as a prime example. Despite the release of the MPA Bill being promised since July of the previous year, its publication has been delayed beyond the Easter recess of the Oireachtas, bringing its commencement into question within the current Government’s tenure.
The environmental coalition warned on Tuesday that the deferred introduction of the Bill could greatly impede the State’s capability to achieve significant international goals related to environment and climate. The proposed Bill has extensive implications, including setting the locations of offshore wind farms, as it seeks to ensure the protection of 30% of Ireland’s marine territory by 2030.
Dr Donal Griffin, who coordinates the Fair Seas campaign, voiced concerns that it might prove difficult to pass the legislation before the next general election, even if the Government serves its full term, as indicated by supposed future taoiseach Simon Harris. Dr Griffin believes that the legislation mustn’t be hastily advanced through the Oireachtas, given its critical role in the preservation of the nation’s marine biodiversity.
Dr Griffin further indicated that with every further delay, the Government’s objective of labelling 30% of Irish waters as MPAs grows increasingly challenging. The lack of MPA legislation also obstructs the identification of potential offshore development sites, thereby impacting Ireland’s ability to attain its offshore renewable energy goals.
Rebecca Dudley, the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group’s scientific officer, asserted that the Government has the time to not just publish the Bill but promptly move it to the committee stage for debate and potential amendment to reinforce the legislation. She warned that failing to deliver this key legislation pertaining to biodiversity and climate, one heavily backed by the public, will not sit well with voters expecting the urgent introduction of strong MPA legislation.
Fair Seas is advocating for powerful and resolute laws that pledge to efficiently safeguard 30% of the surrounding Irish waters by 2030, with a meticulous preservation for 10%. The organisation strongly insists on the involvement of stakeholders at every level; clearly defined delivery schedules and a sturdy administrative structure, complete with precise, location-specific steps to guarantee the Marine Protected Areas contribute effectively to nature. The Marine Department has been solicited for responses concerning the postponements of the Bill.