A Significant Step for Marine Protection This week marked an important step forward for marine protection in Ireland, with the publication of the Heads of the Maritime Area Planning (Marine Protected Areas) (Amendment) Bill 2026. The long-awaited Bill represents a significant milestone in Ireland’s efforts to better protect its marine environment. It outlines the proposed
Ireland’s seas are home to whales, dolphins, seals, seabirds, fish, coastal communities and livelihoods. They are also under increasing pressure. For years, people across Ireland have called for stronger protection for our marine environment. Yet progress on Marine Protected Area legislation has been too slow. Ireland has committed to protecting 30% of its waters, but