Decision-maker contact

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.

Why your voice matters

Personal messages are politically meaningful

Hearing directly from citizens who care has a big impact on decision-makers. Public pressure helps politicians set policy agendas and priorities.

Government officials made a commitment

Emails sent directly to government officials hold them accountable to their commitments to protect 30% of Ireland's seas by 2030.

Time is ticking

Each day Ireland’s seas remain unprotected, the health of marine ecosystems — along with the coastal communities and wildlife that rely on them — face increasing threats.

Currently, Ireland has designated less than 10% of its seas as MPAs, but the lack of adequate monitoring and management means these areas are “paper parks” — protected only on paper · Nick Masset
Protected areas are vital to the health of our ocean and the species that depend on it. Ireland's seabirds are more endangered than ever, with the puffin population in severe and rapid decline.
A 2023 Irish survey found that 98% of people agreed on the importance of protecting the marine environment and establishing more marine protected areas (MPAs). Two-thirds of those surveyed believed that “a lack of political will” was what’s standing in the way.

What happens next

Your letter will be go directly to Minister O’Brien and Minister Noonan. By sending this message, you’re helping put pressure on leaders to act swiftly and effectively for the future of Ireland’s seas.

Supporters
Greg
3 weeks ago
Kate
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Michael
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Audrey
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Emma
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Zofia K
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Declan
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David
1 month ago
James
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Frieda
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Jen
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Maggie
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John K
1 month ago
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