Wind Energy Ireland (WEI) and marine environmental coalition Fair Seas have jointly criticized the Irish government for delays in advancing the Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Bill, calling for immediate legislative action ahead of the General Election.
In a joint statement, the organizations expressed concern over the government's failure to prioritize the MPA Bill, which they describe as crucial for Ireland's offshore renewable energy targets and its international commitments to protect marine biodiversity.
Fair Seas Coordinator Donal Griffin emphasized the urgency: “We may represent different interests but Fair Seas and Wind Energy Ireland are united in a desire to see the MPA Bill enacted as soon as possible. This legislation is too important to delay any longer.”
WEI's Director of external affairs, Justin Moran, underscored the bill's significance for Ireland's sustainable energy future: “The Marine Protected Areas Bill is central to Ireland's sustainable energy future and we want a commitment from the Government that this will be a priority when the Dail meets again in September.”
The statement comes as Ireland aims to develop 5 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind energy by 2030, part of broader efforts to meet climate targets. The organizations warn that without timely enactment of the MPA Bill, the country risks setbacks in both environmental protection and renewable energy development.
