Ms Ellen McMahon:

The narrative is changing dramatically. There has been a shift even in the past three years. The high nature ambition coalition this year is calling on governments throughout the world to increase the levels of ambition in regard to marine protection. It is about capitalising on that, continuing on that trajectory and, ultimately, inspiring coastal communities. In future we might see the roll-out of coastal partnerships. It is about giving a voice to those local communities in order that we will have a two-pronged approach, from the Government and the coastal communities. That is how we will drive change.

There are some brilliant examples. I worked in New Zealand for a year on marine protection, and the way in which that country wins that hearts and mind argument is very successful. In Ireland, I would love our legislators to be species champions, that is, people we can look to as champions for habitats and species who can help to win those hearts and minds. I am optimistic. The narrative is changing and let us keep going down that track.