Winds of change: How protected are our seas? – Event 27 September 2022

Our second ‘Winds of change’ information evening was another opportunity for locals to come together and be informed on important issues for our shoreline and marine environment.

This hybrid event was held on Tuesday 27 September at the Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire, hosted by the Killiney Bay Community Council and Dalkey Community Council

Watch the event recording

Speakers

• Dr Cormac Walsh, Spatial Planning Consultant, presented his review on the National Marine Planning Framework (NMPF), with findings and recommendations. This legal framework, as approved by the Oireachtas in December 2021, intends to set out how Ireland will use, protect and enjoy its seas in the years up to 2040.
• Dr Valerie Freeman, Coastal Concern Alliance, spoke about ‘Harnessing our Ocean Wealth: An Integrated Marine Plan for Ireland, 2012’ and the ‘Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan, 2014’.

Agenda

• 19.30 – Welcome – Susan McDonnell
• 19.35 – Video presentation
• 19.50 – Introduction to meeting and speakers
• 20.00 – National Marine Planning Framework (NMPF) – A Review by Dr Cormac Walsh
• 20.20 – A comment on other marine plans – Dr Valerie Freeman
• 20.30 – Q&As
• 21.00 – End of meeting

Background

Offshore wind is to play a significant role in Ireland’s decarbonisation.

Sustainable offshore wind farm strategies need  to protect, conserve and help restore our marine environment.

Designating and implementing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) is running behind plans to build a string of wind farms along the east and south coasts. 

This event is a follow-up to our previous ‘Winds of change at sea‘ public discussion held on 20 July 2022 and hosted by the Killiney Bay Community Council, Dalkey Community Council and Fair Seas.