ARTICLES AND NEWS

Minister Dempsey Launches National Consultation on the Registration of Vessels on the Irish Flag

Today, Mr Noel Dempsey T.D., Minister for Transport launched a public consultation document on the registration of vessels on the Irish flag. This document sets out proposals for amending the existing registration scheme for vessels.

Consultation on Proposals for the Registration of Vessels in Ireland is available to download on the dedicated website www.vesselregister.ie <http://www.vesselregister.ie> (to which comments can be e-mailed) or can be obtained in printed format from the Department of Transport.

The Minister called on vessel owners and other interested members of the public to get involved in this consultation.

“The proposed new vessel registration system is an important step in improving safety and security in our marine environment. The proposals will improve the information available on vessels operating in Irish waters. They will assist in ensuring that those registered under the Irish Flag adhere to both national and international requirements. Feedback from the public on these proposals is vital. It will help me prepare new, improved legislation that will govern vessel registration into the future. “

The objective of the new proposals is to establish a modern and comprehensive Vessel Registration system with a centralised accessible, electronic register at its core. It is intended that the new Irish vessel registration system will not only provide a record of vessels on the Irish flag, but will also facilitate compliance with national and international safety, security, living and working conditions and environmental requirements for vessels as well as providing assistance for search and rescue services in Irish waters.

Existing registered ships will be transferred to the new register free of charge and they will be eligible to apply in due course to renew registration. The categories of vessels that will be required to be registered is expanding and therefore some owners who were not previously required to register their vessels, will now be required to do so.

Department of Transport
Irish Coast Guard and Maritime Administration
Leeson Lane
Dublin 2
Phone: 01-6783420 Email: vesselregister@transport.ie <mailto:vesselregister@transport.ie>

30 April, 2008

Mr John Browne T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, today announced that he has allocated more than EUR3 million for important coastal protection works around the country in 2008.

"Ireland must continue to protect our coastline, sections of which are constantly under threat from erosion.  Being an island community, our coastline is one of our most important natural resources and is of particular importance to our tourism industry.  The coastal protection programme aims to construct works that slow or even halt erosion in places where the coastline is at its most vulnerable," said Minister Browne.

"The programme provides funding to a number of projects which are being managed by my Department's Engineering Division.  The most significant of these is the Coastal Protection Strategy Study which will continue into phases 2 and 3 in 2008.  On completion, this study will determine future priorities in the area and how best to allocate our resources to ensure the preservation of our coastline and achieve the best value for money for taxpayers."  Other existing projects receiving funding include Geographic Information System (GIS) maintenance and development; tide gauges and wave buoys.

Minister Browne announced that funding of EUR900,000 has been already been allocated under the 2008 programme to emergency works at Inch beach, Co. Kerry.  Other projects in Local Authority areas receiving funding include Ross in Co. Clare, Strandhill in Co. Sligo, Abbeyside, Dungarvan, in Co. Waterford, Clonakilty, Co. Cork and Casson Sound, Co. Donegal. In addition, coastal protection works will continue at St. Helens Bay and Curracloe in Co. Wexford.

A full listing of all the coastal protection projects to receive funding in 2008 is beneath.
COASTAL PROTECTION PROGRAMME 2008
                Total DAFF Contribution
        National Coastal Protection Strategy Study (Phases 2 & 3)       EUR355,000
        Detailed survey of selected coastal areas (Phase 1)     EUR150,000
        GIS maintenance and development EUR1,000
        Tide gauges and wave buoys      EUR10,000
        Rosslare Maintenance    EUR51,000
        PRISM Maintenance       EUR50,000

Ross, Co Clare  Rock armour and gambions        EUR180,000
Clonakilty, Co Cork     Tidal barrage   EUR89,900
Derrylaghan, Kilcar, Co Donegal Protection of road      EUR63,750
Mountcharles, Co Donegal        Coast road wall EUR75,000
Casson Sound, Co Donegal        Protection of road      EUR75,000
Kerrykeel, Rosnakill, Co Donegal        Protection of road      EUR60,000
Burrow Road, Sutton, Co Dublin  Protection of Dunes     EUR50,000
Inch, Co Kerry  Emergency Coastal Protection Works      EUR900,000
Baltray, Co Louth       Embankment and flood wall       EUR56,250
Bertra, Westport, Co Mayo       Rock armour and gambions        EUR75,000
Laytown/Bettystown Beach, Co Meath      Environmental Impact Statement on beach nourishment     EUR45,000
Strandhill, Co Sligo    Effluent treatment plant protection     EUR136,165
Courtown, Co Wexford    Coastal Protection/Beach Nourishment Scheme     EUR150,000
Abbeyside, Dungarvan, Co Waterford      Earthworks including rock armouring     EUR137,685
Duncannon, Co Wexford   Completion of 2000 scheme: Protection works to lifeguards platform      EUR33,750
St. Helens Bay, Co Wexford      Completion of 2007 scheme access steps  EUR63,750
Morriscastle, Co Wexford        Protection works to beach access        EUR18,750
Curracloe, Co Wexford   Repairs to sand dune fencing sleepers to accesses       EUR37,500
Tinaberna Area, Co Wexford      Coastal protection /Rock revetment      EUR75,000
Brittas Bay, Co Wicklow Dune protection         EUR22,500
Arklow, North Beach, Co Wicklow Assess stability of existing rock armour revetment and carry out essential repairs      EUR75,000
         GRAND TOTAL     EUR3,037,000

30 April, 2008
ENDS

Another busy year for search and rescue operations with incident numbers up by 154 compared to 2006, the year started with a number of fishing vessel sinkings and lives lost in January. The entire month was taken up with large scale sea, air and shoreline searches concentrated on the south coast.

Incident numbers increased by 154 in comparison to 2006 an increase of 8.5%. The main areas of increase were the leisure/recreation where yacht/dinghy incidents were up by 50% while surfer incidents, jet-ski and canoe were increased by 31%, 10% and 31% respectively. Interestingly shore angling was up by 75% and mountain rescue by 27%. This is probably a reflection of the number of people partaking in the leisure area.

The increase of diving incidents (120%) and cave rescue (400%) is another reflection of the uptake in this area.

Areas in which decreases were reflected are Angling (-10%) Rowing (-27%) Sailboarding (-31%) Kitesurfing
(-37%) and a marked decrease in cliff climbing of 22%. It would appear that our Safety on the Water message is not falling on deaf ears. ELT alerts showed an increase of 33%. The nuisance call numbers have increased by 38%

	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007
Incidents	1718	1759	1772	1792	1809	1802	1807	1961
Persons saved/asst	4831	5135	8389	5973	5016	4709	4266	3488
Pleasure Craft	319	360	346	427	478	551	547	696
Merchant Craft	76	76	77	68	60	75	63	64
Fishing Craft	337	231	282	322	319	297	265	278
Pollution Report	49	51	40	53	41	34	34	47
IRCG Coastal Units	515	412	646	658	594	663	720	822
S61N	259	235	268	310	374	452	458	469
IAC Helo	129	140	163	134	62	N/A	N/A	N/A
RNLI	514	575	654	703	698	754	711	736
CIRS	47	34	80	76	77	105	148	96
Gardai	113	94	73	66	74	58	70	58
False Alarms	200	130	146	112	117	126	142	142
Hoax	54	28	30	30	23	20	27	23

29/08
MINISTERS COUGHLAN AND BROWNE LAUNCH MAJOR SCHEME TO RESTRUCTURE IRISH FISHING FLEET

        The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Mary Coughlan T.D. and John Browne T.D., Minister of State at the Department, today launched a scheme to permanently remove fishing vessels from Ireland's fishing fleet.  This voluntary scheme will remove older and larger fishing vessels with mixed catches of fish such as cod, haddock, monkfish, mackerel and herring.   The removal of these vessels will increase the quotas available to the more modern competitive fishing vessels and will ensure a more sustainable and profitable fleet.

        This investment in the future of the catching sector will permanently remove some 75 boats from the Irish fleet.  The scheme delivers on a key recommendation of the Strategy for a Restructured, Sustainable and Profitable Seafood Industry 2007 to 2013 - Steering A New Course also known as the Cawley Report.

Minister Coughlan said "The aim of this scheme is to bring about a viable future for the fishing sector and support the economies of those coastal communities dependent on fishing.  The government has invested a EUR21 million budget for the scheme in 2008 with a further EUR21 million committed in 2009.  I will pursue further funding, in line with the recommendations of the Cawley report, as required, taking account of the take up under the scheme.  This programme represents a very substantial commitment to bringing the Irish fishing fleet into balance with available resources and ensuring that those remaining in the industry can be assured of a profitable future.  The recently published Finance Bill contains a number of measures specifically designed to reduce the tax burden on fishermen taking up this scheme."

The scheme is open to vessels owners in respect of fishing vessels 10 years or more in age and 18 metres or more in overall length. Vessels must be operational at the time of decommissioning and have a recent track record of fishing.  The level of payments under the scheme are determined based on criteria including the age of the vessel and its catch history but will not exceed in any case EUR7,500 per gross tonne.

Minister Coughlan added "The Seafood Strategy sets down the road map for the development of the sector.  We must focus on sustainability of fish stocks and maximising the return from the fish catch.  Already good progress has been made, in line with the Cawley strategy, on delivering a more innovative and co-ordinated approach to the marketing and processing of seafood in order to maximise the value at every stage from the sea to the table.  We are determined to press ahead to deliver on the full range of recommendations, of which decommissioning is an important step, and in so doing to secure the future for our coastal communities dependent on fishing."

Minister Browne said "The scheme we are launching today is voluntary and is aimed at giving those who wish to retire or take up other employment opportunities a financially attractive package that reflects the level of investment and commitment they have already given to this industry.  Vessel owners who opt to remain in the industry can be confident that they face a more secure future and will have access to increased fish quotas to secure their financial viability".

The closing date for receipt of all applications under this scheme is 5.00 PM on Wednesday 30th April 2008.

Details of the scheme are available by contacting the Fleet Development Section, BIM P.O Box 12 Crofton Road, Dún Laoghaire Co. Dublin, Tel: 01-214-4100 or can be downloaded from the BIM website at www.bim.ie <http://www.bim.ie>

20 February, 2008

Editors Notes:
Key Points of the Scheme:

*       The scheme provides for withdrawal premiums (decommissioning grants), for the permanent withdrawn of fishing vessels from the whitefish sector of the Irish fishing fleet and their removal from the EU register of sea fishing vessels.
*       The scheme delivers on the recommendations of the Seafood Industry Strategy Review Group and complements the earlier, successful, 2005 - 2006 decommissioning programme.  It also continues delivery of the central recommendation of the White Report, 'that a national decommissioning programme is the best way of taking out the necessary fishing capacity so that those remaining in the sector can look forward to working in a fishing industry with good economic prospects'.
*       The 2007 Decommissioning Scheme sets itself the target of removing a further 11,140 GTs from the polyvalent and beam trawl segments of the whitefish fleet. This, together with the 3,178 GTs already removed from the whitefish sector accomplished during the first phase of decommissioning, represents the full programme of decommissioning recommended by the Seafood Industry Strategy Review Group and provided for in the National Development Plan 2007 - 2013.
*       The scheme is open to vessels owners in respect of fishing vessels that:
                -       Are registered in the polyvalent or beam trawl segments of the Irish fleet.
                -       Are operational at the time the decision is taken to grant the withdrawal premium.
                -         Are 15 years or more in age at the time of application
*       The scheme is also open to vessels owners in respect of fishing vessels that are 10 years or more in age (at the time of application), but only in respect of applications received in the defined time period that score 50 points or more based on an assessment of the selection criteria
                -       Are 18 metres or more in overall length.
                -       Have carried out a fishing activity for at least 75 days at sea in both of the two periods of 12-months preceding the 31st December 2007, or, have carried out a fishing activity for at least 150 days at sea in the 12-month period preceding the 31st December 2007.

*       The scheme will provide a basic payment of EUR1,000 per GT for successful applicant plus an additional payment of EUR2,500 per GT for those with tradable or transferable tonnage.
*       In addition to the basic decommissioning payment, the scheme provides a 'catch incentive premium' of up to EUR3,000 per GT based on the declared landings (in every case tonnes live weight) of specified whitefish stocks and up to 1/3 of the catch of non-specified stocks.
*       In addition to both the basic decommissioning payment and the catch incentive premium, the scheme further provides a pelagic premium of EUR1,000 per GT for vessels over 65 feet (19.81 metres) who decommission a vessel licensed without a 'mackerel and herring preclusion.
*       However under no circumstances will public aid for decommissioning paid to beneficiaries exceed EUR7,500 per GT for qualifying vessels over 65 feet (19.81 metres) licensed without a 'mackerel and herring preclusion', or EUR6,500 per GT in the case of all other qualifying vessels.

Table of events Timetable
Opening of Scheme       20th February 2008
Final Date For receipt of Applications  (closing date)  Wednesday 30th April 2008
Letter of Offer Issue   Within 6 weeks from the closing date
Final Date for Acceptance       Within 4 weeks from the issuing of the letter of offer
Final Date for Surrender of Licence     Within 12 weeks from the issuing of the letter of offer
Payment of first 50%    Within 3 weeks of the surrender of the licence
Final Date for completion of Payment 2nd 50%    This payment will be made between 1st January 2009 and the 30th June 2009.

The 45^th Paris Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control Surveyors Seminar will be held in Dublin from Tuesday the 11th to Thursday the 13th of December 2007. It will be hosted by the Irish Coast Guard and Maritime Administration. Mr John Fearon, Director General will open the Seminar.

During this seminar attending Port State Control Officers from the 27 Member States will discuss new developments in the Paris MoU region to enhance maritime safety, security and pollution prevention. The seminar will address the human element aspects on maritime safety including the recently completed concentrated inspection campaign for the onboard safety management systems for ships. Other matters to be considered during the meeting will include the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers and the International Labour Organisation Convention on hours of work and the meeting will discuss how hours of work/rest onboard ships are inspected and verified.

The Port State Control Seminar is a twice-annual event organised by the Secretariat of the Paris MoU and hosted by one of the member States (22 EU MS and 5 non-EU MS). The Seminar aims to strengthen the harmonization and standardization of PSC inspections throughout the Paris MoU region.

The Seminar will be attending by port state control officers from the Member States of the Paris MoU and representatives from the EU Commission, US Coast Guard, the Tokyo MoU and the Caribbean MoU.

Port State Control is an inspection of approximately 25% foreign flag ships that visit ports in the EU and Paris MoU Region to assess whether or not they comply with international requirements of safety, pollution prevention and seafarers living and working conditions. It is a means of enforcing compliance where the owner of the ship and the flag State has failed in their respective responsibility to implement or ensure compliance with international regulations. Where serious deficiencies (hardware - equipment or humanware - people) are clearly identified during a visit by inspectors to a ship then the ship may be formally detained. Other non-detainable deficiencies may be given a set time period to rectify. It is the port (the port in the State where the foreign ship is visiting) State's last line of defence against visiting sub standard ships. Ireland achieves over 25% inspection rate with approximately 6 -7% detentions each year. This is in line with other EU MS. The regulations are introduced by Conventions under the auspice of the UN Agency bodies International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Labour Organization (ILO). These Conventions are further transposed into legislation of the Member States and are also contained in EU Directives.

Regional Port State Control was initiated in 1982 when 14 EU Member States agreed to co-ordinate their port State inspection effort under a then voluntary agreement known as the Paris Memorandum of Understanding (Paris MoU) on Port State Control (PSC). Current membership as of May 2007 (25th Anniversary of the Paris MoU) is 22 EU Member States and five non-EU (Canada, Croatia and Iceland, Norway Russian Federation). The European Commission, although not a signatory to the Paris MoU is a member of the Port State Control Committee (PSCC), which is the executive body of the Paris MoU and meets once a year.

Currently each country undertakes to inspect 25% of individual foreign flag ships visiting their ports to pool inspection information and harmonise procedures. The co-ordinated effort results in inspection coverage of 80 to 90% of ships visiting the Region.

Inspection reports are entered locally and recorded on a central database SIReNaC operated by the French administration and located in St. Malo. The offices of the Secretariat of the Paris MoU are provided by the Netherlands Ministry of Transport, Public Works and Water Management. Member States of the Paris MoU share equally the budget.

Since PSCC in May in Helsinki 2005 the Chairman of the Paris MoU is Mr. Brian Hogan, Chief Surveyor of the Marine Survey Office, Maritime Safety Directorate, Department of Transport based in Leeson Lane, Dublin 2.

BROWNE INVITES VIEWS OF PUBLIC ON FISHERY HARBOUR CENTRE BUSINESS PLANS

John Browne TD, The Minister of State with special responsibility for Fisheries at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, today invited members of the public to submit to his Department their views for consideration in drafting of business plans for the six Fishery Harbour Centres in Killybegs, Ros an Mhíl, Castletownbere, Dunmore East, An Daingean and Howth.

Minister Browne strongly urged all those involved in the fishing industry as well as other stakeholders in the Fishery Harbour Centres to avail the this opportunity to make an input to the Business Plans, saying "The Fishery Harbour Centres are important economic engines for their regions and it is important that the levels of economic activity and returns from these facilities are maximised. The Business Plans will set priorities for developing the social, fishing and other economic uses of the harbours to the benefit of the broader economy."

Specific business plans for each Fishery Harbour Centre will be included as part of the overall business plan for the centres. The Business plans will set down the goals to be achieved by the Fishery Harbour Centres over the next five years, identify the strategy to be followed to reach these goals, and recommend a detailed plan of action for the implementation of the strategy. The plans will establish business development priorities for the Fishery Harbour Centres and provide a framework for optimising the fishing and marine related activities, such as the development of leisure, amenity and other social and economic facilities in the locations of the Fishery Harbour Centres.

Submissions from members of the public in relation to the business plans for the six Fishery Harbour Centres may be sent to the following address:

"FHC Business Plan - Submission"
Sea Fisheries Administration Division,
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food,
Block C,
West Cork Technology Park,
Clonakilty,
Co. Cork.

E Mail: Fisheryharbours@dcenr.ie <mailto:Fisheryharbours@dcenr.ie>

Deadline for receipt of submissions is 14 December 2007

ENDS

The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Mary Coughlan T.D., today met with Mr. Joe Borg, EU Commissioner responsible for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs.

During the meeting Minister Coughlan outlined her vision for the sector in

Ireland

. She emphasised the potential for the sector to develop in a commercial but sustainable way based on research, innovation and the Government’s integrated Development Plan for the Seafood Sector 2007-2013. Commissioner Borg said that he was familiar with the Government’s plan and was very supportive of it.

The Minister asked Commissioner Borg to fast-track Commission state-aid approval for

Ireland

’s planned buy-out scheme to achieve a balance between

Ireland

’s fishing fleet and fish resources. The Government has set aside €15 million in 2007 for this voluntary scheme.

Minister Coughlan said “I am committed to the introduction without delay of a buy-out scheme for fishing vessels. We need to offer some fishermen the opportunity to leave fishing and give them appropriate compensation. I am anxious to launch this scheme in the near future and need the European Commission to give its approval”.

Minister Coughlan also asked the Commissioner to deliver the new rules for the Electronic Reporting system for fish catches without further delay. She asked for robust new rules that give real time access to Coastal States such as

Ireland

to the logbook data of all fishing vessels operating in its waters. The principles were agreed last November by Council where

Ireland

took a lead role. The commencement of the new electronic system is dependent on the introduction of new rules currently under consideration.

Minister Coughlan commented “The new electronic logbook offers real opportunities for our Navy to monitor and control fishing activity in our waters. I pressed Commissioner Borg to have these rules introduced without further delay and to ensure that they deliver real time access to data so that our industry can be confident that there is equality of treatment at EU level”.

Concluding Minister Coughlan said that her first meeting with Commissioner Borg had been very positive covering a range of areas which are central to her policies for this very important sector for the years ahead.

Minister for Transport, Mr. Noel Dempsey T.D. today announced that Irish Diving Contractors Ltd have been awarded the contract to raise the fishing vessels the Pere Charles and the Maggie B which sank off the south-east coast with the loss of seven lives*.

Speaking today Minister Dempsey said: “We are all very conscious of recent tragedies in the fishing sector which have led to the tragic loss of lives at sea. The safety of fishing vessels is a high priority for me and the raising of these two trawlers will allow us to learn if any further improvements are necessary in the specified standards for the seaworthiness of fishing vessels. We must do all we can to prevent similar tragedies in the future.”

The successful company, Irish Diving Contractors Ltd, is based in north Co. Dublin. It is expected that the vessels, once raised, will be brought to Arklow, where they will be examined by surveyors of the Department of Transport. Subject to suitable weather and sea conditions, the vessels are expected in Arklow in October.

* The Pere Charles sank on 10 January 2007 and the Maggie B sank on 29 March 2006.

Eamon Ryan T.D., the Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources, and Mary Coughlan T.D., Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries & Food, today announced the awarding of nearly €20 million worth of grants to fund new marine research projects in

Ireland

. The awards, named after Irish hydrographer Francis Beaufort, will fund 141 researchers and students working in 5 research consortia, across 5 institutions.

Presenting the awards Minister Ryan stressed the importance of discovery and continued Governmental backing of scientific endeavour as we face new problems, such as climate change, that will affect the marine environment and associated industries.

Minister Ryan , “We know that the way we manage our fishstocks has to change, that climate change is affecting the abundance and distribution of our salmon, among others. We know that we have to comply with the EU Water Framework Directive and other marine environment legislation. We believe there are novel chemical compounds in the marine environment that we could use in developing new drugs. And we know we don’t accurately know the economic, social and environmental value of our marine resources.

We may know the general challenges that face us but the award winners here today will be tasked with providing us with the evidence to act. Science is pivotal to our future progress in the marine as in other sectors. I am pleased that the Government is backing such ground-breaking research that will allow us to utilise our marine resources in an ecologically sound and innovative ways.”

Minister Coughlan also praised the successful applicants and highlighted the importance that the Government places on Marine Research, “The Irish marine sector is estimated to have a turnover of more than €3 billion annually and supports over 44,000 jobs, 56% of which are in peripheral regions of the country. Under the Marine Knowledge Research and Innovation Strategy for

Ireland

, Sea Change, this Government will invest more than €365 million to create new marine-related commercial opportunities between now and 2013.”

In addition to the research awards announced today, the Beaufort initiative will also fund a highly prestigious prize to be awarded to a world-class marine research scientist, Irish or international, active in research collaboration with

Ireland

. This competition will be actively promoted around the world in 2008. This prize will be structured similar to the Nobel awards and will help to establish

Ireland

as an internationally renowned centre of marine research excellence.

Minister Ryan concluded, “The Beaufort Awards will help us develop a sustainable and dynamic marine sector in

Ireland

. They represent the best in Irish marine science, across many institutions and on both sides of the border. I wish Minister Coughlan well as she takes on responsibilities in this important area”.

The awards announced today are named after Francis Beaufort (1774-1857) the Irish hydrographer, from Navan, Co Meath who devised the Beaufort wind-classification scale. The Beaufort scheme allows researchers on the Island of Ireland access to the world class facilities of the Marine Institute thereby optimising the use of this world class Institute. The Institute has its headquarters in Oranmore and field research station at Newport Co Mayo.

The Minister for Transport, Mr. Noel Dempsey T.D. today announced the introduction of comprehensive new safety measures for fishing vessels in the 15-24 metre length category.

Speaking today Minister Dempsey said: “Working at sea is a hazardous life. I want to see the risks involved minimised as far as possible. The safety of fishing vessels is very important and these regulations will make a real difference for many who make their living from the sea.”

“The new Regulations are a key part of a programme to prevent casualties at sea by setting high safety standards and ensuring regular surveys and certification of vessels. The objective is to provide improved safety and ultimately to save lives. I want to express my sincere thanks to all those who engaged in the lengthy consultation process that preceded these regulations. ”

The new Regulations will apply to all Irish registered fishing vessels in the 15-24 metre length category (approx 200 vessels). They will apply on a phased basis beginning with new vessels with effect from 1 October 2007 and to other age categories on an annual basis thereafter. The Regulations are a comprehensive set of provisions relating to the construction of vessels, the stability of vessels, machinery and equipment, fire protection, life saving appliances, radio communications, navigation equipment, and crew accommodation.

Once the Regulations come into force for a particular vessel age category, those vessels will be subject to survey and certification by the Marine Survey Office of the Department of Transport. Compliance with the safety regime will be a requirement for the issue or renewal of sea-fishing licences by the Registrar General of Fishing Boats (under the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources).

The introduction of the Regulations is the latest development in a phased approach aimed at improving safety measures on all fishing vessels. All fishing vessels are now encompassed within the safety regime. Vessels of less than 15 metre length are already covered by a Code of Practice and vessels of over 24 metre length are covered by the 2002 Safety Regulations.

The Minister also referred to his decision to raise the vessels the Pere Charles and the Maggie B, which sank off the south-east coast last year with the loss of seven lives. The contract has been offered to a company, following a tendering process, and a decision is expected shortly. “The raising of the two trawlers will allow me to determine if any further improvements are needed in the specified standards for the seaworthiness of fishing vessels. We must learn from these tragedies.” said the Minister.

For further information contact Press Office, Department of Transport, at (01) 604 1090/91.

The Minister for Transport and the Marine, Mr Noel Dempsey T.D. announced today that Ireland has joined the International Hydrographic Organisation, IHO, based in Monte Carlo.

The International Hydrographic Organisation is an intergovernmental consultative and technical organisation that was established in 1921 to support safety in navigation and the protection of the marine environment. It acts very much like an “Ordnance Survey “of the sea.

Ireland was represented as an observer at the XVIIth International Hydrographic Conference in Monaco in May 2007 and became the 79^th member of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in early June 2007. Ireland also became a member of the North Sea Hydrographic Commission, (NSHC), which is one of the regional Hydrographic Commissions of the IHO, during this Conference.

Minister Dempsey said “I look forward to the Maritime Safety Directorate of my Department working with the IHO in developing a National Hydrographic Service for Ireland. This will be of major importance to Ireland as a maritime nation and also fulfils an obligation under the Safety Of Life At Sea (SOLAS) Convention. “

The International Hydrographic Organization has adopted the 21^st of June each year as “World Hydrography Day” with the aim of highlighting its work and increasing the coverage of hydrographic information on a global basis. The IHO urges all States to work with them to promote safe navigation.

Minister Dempsey went on to express his satisfaction that Ireland can celebrate “World Hydrographic Day” on the 21^st of June 2007 as the latest member of the IHO.

3rd June 2007

John Browne, Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources, today announced that he has allocated more than €3.52 million for important coastal protection works around the country in 2007.
"Ireland has some of the most scenic coastline in the world, features like the Cliffs of Moher are recognised worldwide and are a major boon for our tourism industry. Not withstanding these most scenic natural phenomena, certain sections of our coastline are constantly under threat from erosion. The coastal protection programme aims to construct works that slow or even halt this process in places where the coastline is at its most vulnerable," said Minister Browne.
"Generous funding has been allocated in 2007 for the initiation of vital new coastal protection works at important locations such as Ballinskelligs Castle, Duncannon & Accony, Louisburg. In addition major coastal protection works will continue at some of the most scenic areas of our coastline at Rosslare Strand, Bundoran & Killiney," continued the Minister.
"Last year I initiated a comprehensive strategy review of our coastal protection programme. As worries about the potential effects that climate change could have upon our coastal regions increase I have decided to accelerate progress on this review. Phases 2 & 3 of the review will be completed in 2007 which will determine future priorities in the area and how best to allocate our resources to ensure the preservation of our coastline and achieve the best value for money for taxpayers," he concluded.
Afull listing of all the coastal protection projects to receive funding in 2007 can be downloaded here
ENDS
For further media information, please contact:-
Ken Cleary, Press Officer: Office +353 1 678 2441 / Mobile: 087 905 9618

The annual spectacular Search and Rescue (SAR) exercise will take place this year at Bantry Harbour on Sunday (27 May 2007). The Irish Coast Guard is organising the event, which starts at 3.00pm and will last for 1 hour and 20 minutes. The main purpose of the exercise is to heighten awareness amongst members of the public, fishing interests and leisure users for safety at sea, on the rivers and lakes and on the cliffs. The exercise will also demonstrate the capabilities of the various units and organisations involved in maritime search and rescue.

There will be a number of realistic exercise rescue scenarios involving canoes, yachts, wind surfers, swimmers, cliff fallers and ending with a fire on board a fishing vessel. Taking part in this exercise will be; the Irish Naval Service and Aer Corps, an RNLI Lifeboat, the Bantry Community Rescue Boat, Lifeguards, Irish Water Safety, Civil Defence, Coast Guard Cliff Teams, Boat Crews and a SAR Helicopter. There will be a full public address commentary throughout the event and a wide range of ‘safety on the water’ publications will be available to the public.

To coincide with the event, the Coast Guard is organising an Art/Painting/Drawing competition for primary school children. Entries should depict any marine search and rescue situation and children can get ideas by looking up www.safetyonthewater.ie <http://www.safetyonthewater.ie> where there are links to sites that have pictures of lifeboats, helicopters, cliff climbing and other SAR units. Entries should be handed in at the event on Sunday. Six lucky winners, and either one parent or guardian each, will get to go onboard a SAR helicopter at Bantry Airfield on a date following the SAR exercise. They will meet the SAR Helicopter Crew, be given a guided tour of the aircraft and go on board a flight for about 40 minutes around the local countryside and coast. It is important that all entries have the name, address, school and class and contact phone number.

A large attendance is expected on Sunday which promises to be very enjoyable day for the family.

The Irish Coast Guard is advising people who are planning to go out on the water or partake in watersports this Bank Holiday weekend. “Let’s keep it safe”, is the message from Eamon Torpay, Search and Rescue Operations Manager of the Coast Guard.

As many people are preparing to enjoy water activities over the weekend, it is vitally important that they take the necessary safety precautions. By wearing an approved, properly serviced Personal Flotation Device (PDF) or lifejacket and taking other sensible safety measures, a person could be saving his or her life. The Coast Guard advise:

For more useful information on safety on the water, check the website www.safetyonthewater.ie

The Minister for Transport, Martin Cullen TD and the Minister of State for Transport, Pat the Cope Gallagher TD have today (Monday 23 April 2007) announced their intention to seek tenders on the raising of a number of fishing vessels that sank.

They have asked their Department to prepare a Request for Tender seeking proposals to raise the Pere Charles and the Maggie B*. The tender will be published at an EU level shortly and tenderers will be asked to assess the costs and risks involved in raising the boats.

The Ministers recognised that, following incidents - most recently in January this year - there is a level of concern, particularly among the families directly involved, that the absence of a boat makes it impossible to adequately investigate the cause of accidents or to ensure that reasonable steps have been taken to recover bodies.

The Ministers indicated that public confidence in the system is important. They are also acutely aware of the trauma suffered by grieving families and that they need to be assured that the steps taken in the aftermath of a tragedy are appropriate.

It is essential that the necessary evidence is gathered to support investigations. It is not normal international practice to raise boats. However, if raising these boats can confirm the adequacy of the existing approach, it will be a useful measure in increasing public confidence. On the other hand if raising the boats uncovers new evidence, it will justify a review of procedures.

The Ministers indicated that their primary concern is with the prevention of accidents. They further indicated a commitment to the enhancement of maritime safety standards including prosecution where warranted.

As a preliminary step, they have also requested their colleague, the Minister for Defence, Willie O’Dea, TD, to arrange for divers from the Naval Service to again inspect the vessels to establish their present condition and to provide data that will assist in the tender process.

The Ministers gave a commitment that every lesson learned from these tragedies would be used to help prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Ireland Extends Continental Shelf Territorial Waters
by 56,000 Sq Kilometres

Noel Dempsey T.D., the Minister for Communications, Marine & Natural Resources today announced that

Ireland

has secured a recommendation from the United Nations Commission on the establishment of the Outer Limits of Ireland’s Continental Shelf in the Porcupine Abyssal Plain.

“I am delighted to announce that earlier this week

Ireland

’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Mr David Cooney, received a document containing the recommendations of the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf. This means that

Ireland

is now in a position to establish the limits of its extended continental shelf (beyond 200 nautical miles) in this area and the limits based on the recommendations of the Commission are final and binding,” commented Minister Dempsey on making the announcement.

Ireland made its submission for this area, known as Zone B, in 2005 thus becoming the fourth country in the world to make a submission to the UN Commission, and it now becomes the third country in the world to receive recommendations (after the Russian Federation and Brazil). The additional area added to

Ireland

’s continental shelf is some 56,000 square kilometres, some 80% of the land area of the State. Under the Law of the Sea Convention, a coastal State exercises sovereign rights over its continental shelf for the purpose of exploring and exploiting the natural resources of the seabed and subsurface.

To the south, in 2006 Ireland became the first country in the world to make a joint submission (together with France , Spain and the UK ) for the area known as Zone C in the Bay of Biscay . Examination of this submission has now been completed and recommendations for this area are expected to issue in September this year.

To the north, informal talks are continuing on the Hatton-Rockall area with Faroes / Denmark, Iceland and the

in an effort to progress to the definition of an outer limit in an area of overlapping claims from the four States.

“I would like to thank

Ireland

’s negotiating team for their dedication and commitment and I am sure that after the successful conclusion to this round of negotiations our team can go on to achieve further successes in the negotiations on Zone C and the Hatton-Rockall area,” concluded Minister Dempsey.

“Awards will stimulate and develop Irish Marine Research”
- Minster Dempsey, Navan, 2 April 2007

Mr. Noel Dempsey, T.D Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources today officially launched the Beaufort Marine Research Awards at Beaufort College in Navan.
These Awards are based on the main principles of the Charles Parsons Energy Research Awards and the Griffith Geoscience Awards, which were recently inaugurated by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Dempsey said "The Beaufort Research Awards are a proactive way to significantly develop overall research capacity in the Marine sector, particularly in priority areas of marine research."
The Government is providing €20 million for this initiative over the next seven years.
"The awards are open to any marine research group on the island of Ireland, who are based in Universities, Institutes of Technology or industry," explained Minister Dempsey. "It is an all-island awards scheme and I regard this programme as an important dimension for Government. With the re-establishment of institutions in Northern Ireland due in May, we want to promote this type of North-South collaboration, where we share skills and experience."
The Beaufort awards will target research leadership of international standing by making funding available for Principal Investigators and a number of researchers with seven year contracts.
"These awards are a very important element of Sea Change - A Marine Knowledge Research and Innovation Strategy for Ireland 2007-2013, which I launched recently," continued Dempsey. "We have invested €365 million to create new marine-related commercial opportunities between now and 2013, and it is tangible evidence of the Government's genuine commitment to the future and sustainable development of Ireland's Ocean Economy."
"I want the Irish marine industry to be the pride of Europe. I want every Member State involved in marine emulating our success and I have no doubt that these awards will focus world attention on Irish marine research," he concluded.
ENDS
Notes for Editors:
The Beaufort Marine Research Award is named after Francis Beaufort the Navan-born surveyor and hydrographer who lived for 83 years between 1774 and 1857.

Louth,, 2 April 2007--Government website entitled www.eGovernance.ie/

Noel Dempsey T.D., the Minister for Communications, Marine & Natural Resources, today formally launched a new Government website entitled www.eGovernance.ie. The eGovernance site is a web based portal that on its launch contains details of members of the Boards and Agencies under the aegis of the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources. It also provides other useful information such as their terms of appointment and board vacancies.
Commenting at the launch of the website, Minister Dempsey stressed the importance of providing information to people in a user friendly format; "Although some of the information contained on the new eGovernance site is already available to the public, gathering it all together would involve a detailed trawl through many information sources.""This can often lead to citizens seeing Government as complex and unconnected. The website that I am delighted to launch here today will consistently provide information in an easily accessible manner, with a minimum of hassle to users," he continued.
The eGovernance website will:
Allow members of the public to track Board membership and vacancies online,
Allow Company Secretaries to update Board and member information in a simple and easy to use manner.
Improve the information flow between the Boards and the Department, especially with regard to appointments and terms.
Provide an online service for citizens to view current information on State Boards.
Company Secretaries in each State body will have the responsibility for keeping the information for their respective Boards up to date. This will ensure that the information on the website will always be accurate and timely.
"I will be working over the coming months to encourage all Government Departments to bring their agencies on board the eGovernance project. This new website is, I hope, just one step along a road that will ultimately create a Government that is more responsive to the needs of its citizens," concluded Minister Dempsey.
ENDS Speech made by Minister Dempsey at today's launch

Extra Protection, Information and Inspection for

Ireland

's €700 million Fishing Industry

The new Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) has appointed, trained and issued warrants of authorisation to a new group of Sea Fisheries Officers. The officers have just completed their six month training programme at the Authorities de-centralised HQ in Clonakilty.

The appointment of the new officers will greatly increase the number of Sea Fisheries Officers the Authority will deploy to work in partnership with the Gardai, the Air Corps and the Naval Service to monitor and police our coastal waters.

Their work will be to ensure there is compliance by all Irish and non-Irish fishing vessels with the legislative requirements; to monitor compliance with allocated fish quotas, to ensure adherence to logbook completion and submission requirements, to assess compliance by the industry with regard to Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) requirements and to detect undersized and illegally caught fish. They will work with the fishing industry to preserve fish stocks so as to ensure the sustainability of the fishing industry for future generations. This work to conserve fish stocks at a sustainable level will go hand in hand with the parallel responsibilities of Sea Fishery Officers to ensure the food safety of all fish and shellfish produced in

Ireland

Peter Whelan, the newly appointed Executive Chairman of the Authority, presented the Sea Fisheries Officers with their warrants and they will be deployed to enhance the ongoing operations of the Authority around

Ireland

Mr Whelan congratulated the new officers for successfully completing their training and welcomed them to their new positions in the Authority. He said that “delivery of the Authorities function to provide information to the sea fisheries and seafood sectors on sea-fisheries law and food safety law would help to build a positive engagement between the industry and the Authority”.

Waterford’s Minister, Martin Cullen TD has said this afternoon (Tuesday 27 March 2007) that; “it is an honour and a delight,” that the city of Waterford has been selected as the start port for the Tall Ships’ Races 2011. The city has once again been chosen as a host port following its success as a host of the Tall Ships event in 2005.

Speaking today, Martin Cullen said: “It is a great tribute to the people of Waterford and the South East that once again, this city has been selected from many other excellent submissions for this prestigious international sailing event. Great credit is due to the Mayor of Waterford, Councillor Cha O’Neill for his leadership, and to Waterford City Council and the Port of Waterford for this successful outcome to their bid. They all should be especially proud”.

The Minister added: “We have a strong maritime history in this city which goes back at least as far as the Vikings and their long ships. It is wonderful that the River Suir will be showcased again as part of this major international celebration. We can all remember the remarkable site in 2005 of the 80 rigged sailing vessels and the festival of fun and international friendship which we enjoyed that summer and I am sure the 2011 event will be just as special”.

There will be five host ports in 2011 race event - in Germany, Ireland, Norway and the UK and the start port in 2011 will be Waterford. From there the fleet will race to Greenock in Scotland. The fleet will then cruise-in-company to Lerwick in the Shetlands from where the fleet will race across the North Sea to Stavanger in Norway, to be followed by a third race to Cuxhaven in Germany.

China,, 16th March 2007

John Browne T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources, today met with the Chinese Vice-Minister for Fisheries, Minister. P. ChangCheng in Beijing to discuss trade between the two nations, particularly in the seafood area. The meeting was a key event in Minister Browne's programme to promote Irish export opportunities in China.
"The prospects for increasing trade in seafood between Ireland and China are very promising. Already Ireland through our development agency BIM, has been developing a very strong relationship with the China Aquatic Products Processing and Marketing Association (CAPPMA). I believe that this relationship can be further built upon to the benefit of both nations," commented Minister Browne while meeting Minister ChangCheng.
China is currently considered to be the best seafood market opportunity in the world. As living standards are increasing, demand for seafood is soaring. China has tripled imports of seafood products in the past 6 years to more than $3.2 billion per year and the growth shows no signs of slowing. It is estimated that consumption of seafood products will increase by 80% within the next 5 years.
Minister Browne's visit builds on the visit last November of a delegation of 7 Irish seafood processing companies, who travelled to China to investigate new opportunities for Irish seafood. The visit was co-ordinated by BIM and the cross border Seafood Development Programme (SDP) and incorporated a series of factory visits followed by participation in the first all-Ireland pavilion at the 2006 China Fisheries and Seafood Expo.
"I understand that a delegation from China will attend this year's European Seafood Exposition in Brussels and I would like to also invite a delegation to attend the World Seafood Congress, which is being held in Dublin for the first time ever, from 25th - 28th September at Croke Park. There is enormous potential for further growth in our trade relations and I hope that today's meeting will open up new opportunities for Irish businesses to supply more quality Irish seafood products to China," concluded the Minister.
ENDS
For further media information, please contact:-
Olive Stephens, Press Advisor +353 1 678 2440 / Mobile: 087 760 1642
Ken Cleary, Press Officer: Office +353 1 678 2441 / Mobile: 087 905 9618

Dublin, 10 March, 2007

John Browne T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources today confirmed that an offer of grant aid has been issued to Donegal County Council in respect of phase 1 of the Greencastle Harbour Development. Phase 1 of the development involves the construction of a breakwater at an estimated cost of €16.8 million.
Commenting on the announcement Minister Browne said; "I am delighted to approve this vital funding for Greencastle Harbour. Greencastle has suffered congestion and safety problems, which put the lives and livelihoods of all those who used the facilities at risk."
This funding was approved under the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources 2007 Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure programme. Under this Programme the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources provides 75% funding and the Local Authority pays the balance of 25%. However as Greencastle is in a CLÁR designated area the Local Authority contribution is reduced to 12.5% with the Department of Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs contributing the other 12.5% under the new CLÁR scheme.
The recommended development option for Greencastle consists of four phases, which will provide a rock breakwater, fuel berth and mussel berth, new deep-water berths and additional berths to the inner harbour, estimated to cost in excess of €45 million.
The proposed development at Greencastle has received full planning permission. On receipt of a commitment from Donegal County Council to contribute the required 12.5% of the Phase 1 cost the construction will commence. The project will be carried out by DCMNR engineers on behalf of Donegal County Council.
"Our piers and harbours can be crucial in developing both industry and tourism throughout and I hope that this investment will inject a new breath of life into not only the fishing industry at Greencastle but the entire local community as well," concluded Minister Browne.
"This community has lived off the sea for many years. I am delighted they will at last have a pier that will allow full exploitation of this resource for the people," said Éamon Ó Cuív, Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
ENDS
For further media information, please contact:-
Olive Stephens, Press Advisor +353 1 678 2440 / Mobile: 087 760 1642
Ken Cleary, Press Officer: Office +353 1 678 2441 / Mobile: 087 905 9618

Dublin,, 6 March 2007
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good morning and welcome to our National Stakeholder Conference on the EU Maritime Green Paper.
I am very happy to see that we have had an excellent turn out today and I want to thank you all for making the effort to attend, particularly those of you who have had to travel to today's event. I would also thank Commissioner Borg who has taken the time to participate and who will, in a moment, say a few words about the Green Paper.
This Conference represents an opportunity to further explore the issues raised by the Green
Paper and facilitate the involvement of you, the stakeholders. While many of those present will already have submitted views, this forum provides an additional chance to contribute to the debate and discussion around the development of European Maritime Policy.
The submissions received during the consultation process and the views expressed here today will help the relevant Departments and the Marine Institute in drafting a national position on the Green Paper in the coming weeks. Minister Dempsey and I hope to have a Government position prepared and ready for a timely response to the European Commission in April.
Of course, the Green paper consultation is just the first step in a process: I understand that the Commission are intending to bring forward proposals arsing from the Green Paper consultation process in autumn but perhaps I will leave it to Dr Borg to talk more about that.
It is timely that the European Commission has published an EU Green Paper on Maritime Policy as it is a very exciting time for the marine sector in Ireland with a number of major developments currently underway. I feel that Ireland has a lot to offer the European Community and hope that the investment in knowledge and resources in which Ireland has invested over the years can be put to good use in helping to ensure the sustainable development of a European maritime sector.
At the end of January this year the Taoiseach, Minister Dempsey and I launched the Government's National Seafood Strategy. This strategy based on work conducted by Dr Noel Cawley among others, is aimed at developing the Irish seafood sector in a sustainable, profitable and competitive manner. The strategy has the potential to generate over €1 billion for the economy and to provide a sustainable livelihood for people living and working in coastal communities.
The strategy will involve investment of almost €600 million from the public and private sector funding and is a major commitment to the Irish seafood sector.
Turning to research and innovation in the marine sector, Minister Dempsey launched a number of major initiatives just a few weeks ago on his visit to the Marine Institute in Galway.
Firstly, there is the National Marine Research and Innovation Strategy or the Sea Change Strategy. The strategy highlights the need to focus on market-led opportunities in sustainable energy, food production, transport, technology and environmental well-being. A total of €365 million is being committed to this strategy which will deliver the type of high-growth, high-value added industries and jobs that will ensure Ireland's competitiveness and the sustainability of coastal communities.
Complementing this strategy is a new awards scheme with a budget of €20 million over 7 years. It will support marine research activities in 3rd level institutes. This scheme will enhance Ireland's already substantial European and international reputation in marine research and innovation.
While the Sea Change Strategy and the awards scheme are not directly linked to the Green paper they are consistent with the principles underlying it.
The Green Paper, as everyone here is no doubt aware, cuts across a range of sectors and issues including maritime transport, industry, coastal regions, energy, fisheries, aquaculture, the marine environment and socio-economic cohesion.
As such, it represents a significant challenge but also an important opportunity for Ireland and the EU to apply new strategies and innovative thinking for the wider marine sector.
Ireland's contribution to the formulation of the Green Paper has been referred to, on a number of occasions by Commissioner Borg and is referenced in the Green Paper itself. Specifically the EUROCEAN Conference held in 2004 during the Irish Presidency, which culminated in the "Galway Declaration", is cited as influencing the Green Paper's message of the imperative of sustainable development of the oceans and seas.
I think that is something that we can be justifiably proud of and I would like to thank Dr Peter Heffernan and his colleagues in the Marine Institute for their contribution to that process. Indeed I would like to note the consistently excellent work that Peter and his team have delivered over the years and for their hard work in organising today's event.
Finally, I would like to say that as an island nation with over 220 million acres of maritime territory I think it is vitally important that Ireland continue to play a key role in development of maritime policy in the EU. As part of this process Minister Dempsey and I are committed to the formulation of a well thought-out position paper for submission to the European Commission. In order to achieve this we need your participation.
I would like to ask everyone contributing today to bear in mind that what is being discussed is European maritime policy and how Ireland can contribute to that. The implications and opportunities that will arise from this process are in a sense for another day.
Thank you again for making the effort to come along today - I am looking forward to what I am sure we will be a day of interesting and stimulating discussion.
ENDS
For further media information, please contact:-
Olive Stephens, Press Advisor +353 1 678 2440 / Mobile: 087 760 1642
Ken Cleary, Press Officer: Office +353 1 678 2441 / Mobile: 087 905 9618

Oranmore Galway,, 16th February 2007

Noel Dempsey T.D., the Minister for Communications, Marine & Natural Resources on a visit to the Marine Institute Headquarters in Oranmore, Co. Galway today, launched two new major initiatives for the Irish Marine Sector. These are a €365 million National Marine Research and Innovation Strategy entitled Sea Change and a new award scheme to support marine research in 3rd level education institutes as well as a prestigious international prize for world-class marine research.
Speaking at the Marine Institute Headquarters Minister Dempsey outlined the importance of the new research strategy; "This Government is committed to the marine sector and to the people who earn a living from the sea. Sea Change is an exciting, innovative and integrated research programme to deliver high-growth, high value-added industries and ultimately jobs. It will lead to a 50% increase in the sector's turnover, by driving the development of the marine sector as a dynamic element of Ireland's knowledge economy from 2007 until 2013."
The new awards scheme announced today, based on the principles of the highly successful Charles Parsons energy research awards, are designed to support marine research activities in 3rd level educational institutes. The awards are aimed at attracting researchers of international standing to the Irish marine research community at the principal investigator and researcher level and offer the security of a seven-year contract in each case.
A total investment of €20 Million over 7 years will be provided. The positions will be actively promoted throughout the world in order to attract the best internationally available talent to Irish marine research.
The Minister also announced the inauguration of a highly prestigious prize to be awarded to a world class marine research scientist, Irish or international who is active in research collaboration with Ireland.
"I want the Irish marine industry to be the pride of Europe. I want every Member State involved in marine emulating our success. My vision is for increased job opportunities and new markets for all those working in the industry. Investing in marine research capacity is a logical and necessary step, in order to ensure a sound knowledge-based support to this marine development," said Minister Dempsey.
Three major marine projects, funded under the National Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation (SSTI) were also announced today. These projects will focus on marine functional foods, marine environment and climate change, and integrated marine exploration.
"The new schemes announced today along with the €600 million investment pledged under the Cawley Report are tangible evidence of the genuine commitment this Government has to the future development of Ireland's Ocean Economy. I want the Irish marine industry to become a sustainable and profitable one and the measures put in place here today will allow the Irish marine sector to transform itself over the next seven years to achieve this," concluded Minister Dempsey.
Note to Editors:
National Marine Research and Innovation Strategy
Sea Change - A Marine Knowledge, Research and Innovation Strategy for Ireland (2007-2013) will involve investment of over €365 million to implement.
The Sea Change strategy aims to drive the development of the marine sector as a dynamic element of Ireland's knowledge economy. It uses a series of carefully calculated possible scenarios for Ireland by the year 2020 to define global market opportunities linked to the development of marine technologies and resources, as well as practical costed action plans and clearly defined objectives regarding how those opportunities might be achieved. Sea Change also highlights the need for a shift away from the traditional view of the sector as one primarily associated with the harvesting of food, and points towards a wide variety of market-led opportunities in sustainable energy, functional food products, transport, technology and environmental well-being.
More information on Sea Change is available on the Marine Institute's Website at www.marine.ie Ends
For further media information, please contact:-
Olive Stephens, Press Advisor +353 1 678 2440 / Mobile: 087 760 1642
Ken Cleary, Press Officer: Office +353 1 678 2441 / Mobile: 087 905 9618
Email: press.office@dcmnr.gov.ie

Dublin, , 13th February 2007

Noel Dempsey T.D., the Minister for Communications, Marine & Natural Resources today announced that the Government has decided to form an inter-Departmental committee to draft proposals for the creation of a tsunami warning system for Ireland as part of an internationally coordinated system. The committee will comprise several Government Departments and relevant agencies such as Met Eireann, the Geological Survey of Ireland and the Marine Institute.
The International Oceanographic Commission (IOC), in cooperation with the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), is currently coordinating international efforts to deliver an initial system in the North East Atlantic and Mediterranean by end 2007 which will focus on linking up national systems.
"Although the probability of a tsunami along Irish coastlines is statistically very small, the European Union has decided to "fast track" a number of initiatives aimed at predicting such events. The decision today to form a national inter-Departmental committee to develop a fully designed and costed proposal for the Irish early warning system will feed into the international efforts currently underway in this area. Specific proposals for the implementation of the system will be brought to Government for approval later in 2007," Minister Dempsey said today. Ends
For further media information, please contact:-
Olive Stephens, Press Advisor +353 1 678 2440 / Mobile: 087 760 1642
Ken Cleary, Press Officer: Office +353 1 678 2441 / Mobile: 087 905 9618
Email: press.office@dcmnr.gov.ie

“Views Sought from Across the Irish Marine Sector”
Dublin,, 31st January 2007

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources Mr. John Browne T.D., today launched a national consultation process to seek input from all interested parties and stakeholders on the EU Maritime Green Paper "Towards a future Maritime Policy for the Union".
"The Maritime Green Paper represents a unique opportunity for all those interested in the marine sector to have their views considered. The Government's new National Seafood Strategy, which will see a record investment of nearly €600 million in the seafood industry, will form part of the Government's response but we are also seeking views from the wider marine sector," commented Minister Browne at the launch.
The Maritime Green Paper was launched by the EU Commission in June last year, initiating a Europe-wide consultation process which will run until 30th June 2007. It is designed to stimulate debate on all aspects of marine affairs including maritime transport, industry, coastal regions, offshore energy, fisheries and aquaculture, marine environment and social cohesion.
"Ireland is an island nation with over 220 million acres of maritime territory and a growing influence at EU level when it comes to the sea. I would strongly urge anyone with interest in how what is, perhaps, our greatest national resource is managed in the future, to make a response to this vitally important document," he continued.
Welcoming the launch of the Irish government's consultation on the Green Paper, Towards a Future Maritime Policy for the Union: A European vision for the oceans and seas", Commissioner for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, Joe Borg said that the European Commission wants to encourage private sector representatives, NGOs, national and regional authorities, academics and all those with an interest in maritime affairs to have their say in the development of a successful maritime strategy for Europe.
Commissioner Borg said that all those with an interest in maritime affairs should make their voice heard through the consultation process. "The consultation process is an important tool in reaching consensus on the best way forward for Irish and European coastal communities and indeed all of those with an interest in maritime affairs. It is important that in order to shape the direction of the new European maritime policy that people's views and opinions are heard and we would urge people to make a submission."
Marine Institute CEO Dr. Peter Heffernan said that the Green Paper's strategic objectives of "developing a thriving maritime economy, in an environmentally sustainable manner . . . supported by excellence in marine scientific research, technology and innovation," already echoed the vision statement of the Marine Institute, while other elements of the paper clearly show the growing Irish influence on EU policy, before, during and after the Irish EU Presidency.
"During Ireland's EU Presidency, a unique conference - EUROCEAN 2004 - was held in Galway, bringing together some of the best minds in marine research and development from all over the world," said Dr. Heffernan. "This event culminated in the 'Galway Declaration' calling on high-level decision makers to recognise the unique imperative of sustainable development of our oceans and seas. This Declaration is referred to a number of times in the EU Green Paper and has clearly been a profound influence on its arguments."
Martin Territt, Director of the European Commission Representation in Ireland, welcomed the launch of Ireland's consultation on the Green Paper on an Integrated also Maritime Policy. "The sea is an integral part of Irish culture and history. The fishing industry, coastal communities and maritime environment are all part of our national identity. That's why is so important to take a fresh look at how we interact with the sea and the coast and how we can better manage our resources to benefit all of society. I welcome the national launch of this consultation, to which Ireland has so much to contribute."
The consultation process is being managed by the Marine Institute on behalf of the Minister. The closing date for submissions is 2 March 2007. Copies of the Green Paper and the questionnaire on which responses should be submitted can be downloaded, or completed online, at: www.maritimegreenpaper.ie. Hard copies of both documents can be obtained from the Marine Institute. A public Stakeholder Conference will be held in Dublin on 6 March to review submissions received and discuss the issues raised. Parties interested in attending can register their interest via the website or through the Marine Institute.
Notes to Editors:
The Maritime Green Paper
The Maritime Green paper is designed to stimulate debate amongst all stakeholders and at all levels of governance. It does not provide instantaneous answers - but rather asks questions.
The Green Paper argues that European policies on maritime transport, industry, coastal regions, offshore energy, fisheries and aquaculture, marine environment, socio-economic cohesion and other relevant areas have developed separately and that no attempts have been made to take a holistic approach with a view to enhancing these policy areas.
It also notes that globalisation and new and emerging marine technologies have brought about new opportunities and challenges to which we need to be able to apply new strategies and innovative thinking.
To assist stakeholder input, the Green Paper is divided into sections, each posing a number of focussed questions. There are 59 questions in all. They cover such areas as:
Retaining Europe's leadership in sustainable maritime development - in terms of competitiveness, marine environment, the role of science and technology, ocean energy, blue biotechnology, skills and employment and its maritime regulatory framework.
Maximising the quality of life in coastal regions - including the attraction of coastal areas as places to live and work, managing coastal risks, developing coastal tourism, and managing the land-sea interface.
Providing the tools to manage our relations with the oceans - including data availability, financial resources, and spatial planning for a growing maritime economy.
Reclaiming Europe's maritime heritage and reaffirming Europe's maritime industry - including support for maritime education and heritage, and the development of a European maritime identify.
Supporting Events
Public Stakeholder Conference - Dublin, 6 March 2007
A public Stakeholder Conference will be take place shortly after the deadline for submissions. This will review the issues raised in submissions and obtain additional Stakeholder feedback towards the national position.
The Conference will be advertised in the national press with full details on how to register. Alternatively, interested parties can register their interest in attending via: www.maritimegreenpaper.ie.
ENDS
For further media information, please contact:-
Olive Stephens, Press Advisor +353 1 678 2440 / Mobile: 087 760 1642
Ken Cleary, Press Officer: Office +353 1 678 2441 / Mobile: 087 905 9618

Minister Dempsey announces details of a €9.7 billion Package for the Energy, Communications and Marine Sectors under the NDP 2007-2013

Mr Noel Dempsey, TD and Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources today outlined the largest-ever Government investment programme in the areas of Energy, Communications and the Marine.