Photo credit: Aoibheann Gillespie
- Discussion focuses on initiatives contributing to safeguarding Ireland’s marine resources and ensuring sustainable marine ecosystems for future generations
- Meeting is part of ongoing engagement efforts by the regulatory authority with all relevant stakeholders
The Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA), Ireland’s competent authority for sea-fisheries legislation and sea-food production, met today, 7th September 2022, with representatives of Irish Environmental NGOs focused on marine sustainability, to discuss a range of issues related to safeguarding and enhancing Ireland’s marine environment and resources.
During a wide-ranging and productive meeting, the SFPA detailed its regulatory remit and the various strands of Irish and European legislation covering the sector and discussed a number of areas of focus including the Shellfish Classification Programme and monthly water sampling programmes undertaken with industry. It also detailed a number of upcoming projects utilising technology to underpin the sustainability of Ireland’s marine life.
The meeting is part of an ongoing programme of engagement being undertaken by the SFPA to share best practice, knowledge and latest developments in relation to strategic initiatives as part of their regulatory remit to ensure compliance with the EU Common Fisheries Policy, sea-fisheries law and food safety law with all relevant stakeholders.
Paschal Hayes, Executive Chairperson of the SFPA said:
“Today’s meeting was a welcome opportunity for productive dialogue and engagement on a range of issues pertaining to the marine environment and sustainability of our marine resources. Ireland’s marine industry is one that supports over 16,500 jobs, plays a significant role in our coastal communities and has created an industry that is valued at €1.26 billion. Beyond these economic figures, Ireland’s marine resources are of tremendous importance, sustaining a rich and wonderful array of marine life and whose very existence is dependent upon the continued health and vitality of our marine ecosystem.
As the regulatory body for Ireland’s sea-fisheries and sea-food production, our remit is to promote compliance with the EU Common Fisheries Policy, sea-fisheries law and food safety, to ensure the long-term sustainability of this valuable social and economic resource.
To ensure the long-term viability of our marine resources for future generations, a collective approach is required with shared responsibility. We were pleased to have the opportunity to meet with environmental NGOs focused in the marine areas and we look forward to continued and ongoing engagement, underpinned by an unwavering focus on ensuring sustainability and a shared agreement on the value and importance of healthy maritime environments. “
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