€24m boost for Ireland’s marine research and biodiversity

The Irish Government has announced a €23.86 million pledge to promote a sustainable marine environment.

The funding will support marine research for species and biodiversity assessments, initiatives to address climate impacts in coastal areas, advancements in digital ocean technologies, and Ireland’s goal of protecting 30% of its maritime area by 2030.

The announcement was made by Timmy Dooley, Minister of State for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Environment, Climate and Communications, at the 10th Our Ocean Conference in Busan, Korea, on Wednesday.

“Ireland’s significant commitment reflects our dedication to collaborative national and European projects ensuring ocean sustainability,” Dooley stated.

He emphasised Ireland’s history of advocating for sustainable ocean management, adding that the pledge will foster responsible ocean development and support coastal communities reliant on a sustainable seafood sector.

“Ireland has a strong track record of advocating for sustainable ocean management. The commitments entered into today reiterate that position. I am confident they will support not just the responsible development of our oceans, but also support the continued development of Ireland’s coastal communities who are dependent on a sustainably managed seafood sector,” concluded the Clare-based Minister.