What you need to know
Today, virtually none of Ireland’s seas are adequately protected. Approximately 9% lie within some form of protected area, but a lack of effective management has led to widespread habitat loss and a sharp decline in marine biodiversity. Iconic species that grace Ireland’s seas and coastlines — like the Atlantic puffin and angel shark — are at serious risk of extinction.
Last July, the Irish government promised to publish new marine protected area (MPA) legislation to effectively protect and restore Ireland’s seas — but the ministers responsible have yet to deliver. As the Dáil summer recess approaches, the window to enact this crucial bill is closing fast, and your support is more important than ever.
More than 53,000 supporters have signed the petition calling on Ireland’s government to act with the urgency this crisis demands. Take your advocacy one step further by sending letters to Minister Darragh O’Brien and Minister Malcolm Noonan urging them to publish the MPA bill immediately and prioritise its passage into law.
In line with the global mission to protect 30% of the ocean by 2030, Ireland must take decisive steps to fulfill its commitments.
