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Project Code [2014-SE-DS-1]

This information is correct as of today and is updated from time to time by the EPA to reflect changes in the management of the project. Please check back regularly for updates.

Project title

Towards an Integrated Policy Framework for Marine Spatial Planning in Ireland

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin)

Lead Applicant

Conor Norton

Project Abstract

Ireland�s marine environment is facing significant and emerging issues which could impact dramatically on its fragile and unique ecosystem. The need to protect it, is an emerging issue both from a scientific and policy perspective. While a multitude of agents, activities and interests exist at sea, their impacts theraten, fragilise and deplete the marine ecosystem. The literature has extensively depicted the benefits of an integrated marine governance to help sustain and protect those ecosystems, as well as maintain Good Environmental Status of marine waters. Ireland is characterised by a fragmentated governance framework, which results from a highly layered legislation at International, European and national levels. This constitutes a significant threat to the Irish marine environment. With the Proposed Maritime Spatial Directive looming and potentially further adding to Ireland�s complicated governance framework, there is an urgent need to research methods by which it could be implemented in Ireland, as well as to inform and advise policy and decision makers in the marine environment on how to prepare for an integrated marine governance The main output of this research project is a set of recommendations for policy and plan makers in the marine sector in Ireland to advise on a possible governance framework for implementing MSP. To support this guidance and the minimum outputs expected by the EPA, strong communication and dissemination plans were prepared to include a variety of outputs namely: scoping report, case studies, articles for professional and peer-reviewed publications, a research blog, 2 breakfast briefings and an evening talk. The team will strive to broaden the horizon of the research by submitting a paper to an international peer-reviewed conference.

Grant Approved

�79,698.41

Research Hub

Sustainability

Research Theme

Socio-Economic Considerations

Start Date

02/01/2015

Initial Projected Completion Date

02/10/2015