Johnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the opportunity to speak on this Bill today, which is highly technical and complex and which will have major implications for future generations. This Bill will be important to get right. We must ensure that the competing demands for use of our seas are addressed in a way that preserves and protects marine biodiversity, protects the interests of coastal communities and inshore fishermen and women, and provides a meaningful level of public participation on all aspects of marine planning.

The importance of the principle of a just transition cannot be understated in a maritime area such as County Wexford, including Rosslare Port which since Brexit has become one of the most important ports on the island. As we talk about the vital and important move towards sustainable energy, this Bill, if passed, will provide the legislative framework for a new streamlined development consent process for activities in the maritime area, including major offshore renewable energy projects. Offshore wind farms will add greatly to the decarbonising of our environment. It must, however, be a just transition and be mindful of, and mitigate, any potential harm that might impact on local communities and businesses.

Today I will refer to two sectors: the local fishers and charter boat businesses. I have had many conversations with fishers in Wexford. Historically they have felt completely left behind by the Government. They do not have trust or faith that their livelihoods will be protected. This must change. Proper consultation, inclusion and mitigation of harm will be most important when talking about potential applications for offshore development to ensure the sustainability and future of our fishing industry. Small charter boat businesses are a vibrant local industry in County Wexford that contribute hugely to aqua tourism. I emphasise to the Minister of State, Deputy Noonan, the importance of proper engagement and working with this sector as well as our fishers.

I welcome that the new national maritime area regulatory authority, MARA, will be based in Wexford. I commend the Minister of State for this. I have already had constituents on to me asking what the intended timeline for the establishment of MARA is, and what the mechanism for staffing this new entity will be. I point out the importance of this authority being fully independent. This authority cannot be allowed to become a rubber-stamping exercise by any government. MARA must employ the widest possible expertise for its workforce, and I have no doubt that the new technological university for the south east can play an important part in this. I speak for the community when I say they await further details of the regulatory authority with anticipation. The creation of 200 jobs is very welcome and will have a very positive impact on the county. It will add value and economic growth to the county. I thank the Minister of State for that.

I look forward to working on this Bill as it progresses through this House. I trust the Minister and Minister of State will take on board the points raised today in order to ensure a marine planning regime that is open, inclusive, transparent, robust, environmentally sound and of economic and social benefit to all interested parties and communities that depend on the marine for their livelihood.

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