Ms Lorraine O'Donoghue:

No, I simply wished to clarify the manner in which it is being handled in a collaborative sense at present.

Turning to the directive itself, as members probably are aware, it was published in March 2013 and consequently, the discussions are at a very early stage. The proposal itself aims to establish a common framework for marine spatial planning and integrated coastal management among the member states with a view to ensuring the growth of marine and coastal activities, as well as the use of resources at sea and on coasts, remain sustainable. Marine spatial planning is a process based on stakeholder involvement. It analyses and plans best use of the seas and where and when human activity should take place. Integrated coastal management is a separate tool that is used to co-ordinate all policy processes affecting the coastal zone. It addresses land-sea interaction in a co-ordinated way, again with a view to ensuring sustainable development and use of those resources. The Commission perceives maritime spatial planning or marine spatial planning and integrated coastal management to be complementary tools, which, when applied jointly, can improve the land-sea interface planning and management.

As for the national position, as I mentioned discussions are at a preliminary stage. There have been a small number of working group meetings at official level in Brussels but as I have outlined, from the work that is going on nationally under the Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth plan, it is clear that Ireland supports the concept of marine spatial planning. Ireland currently holds the Presidency of the European Council and given this role, which continues for a further two months, as matters stand we are obliged to maintain a neutral position on the discussions. However, suffice it to say the directive is regarded as a framework proposal. Its objectives are operational in nature and ultimately, if adopted, I expect the outcome would be that member states would be required to develop and implement marine spatial planning across the European seas to ensure sustainable management of the coastal areas and to ensure cross-border co-operation in areas of mutual concern.