Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 147: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the level of coastal erosion that has occurred over the past five years on Irish coasts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16629/06]

John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Coastal erosion is a widespread process at locations right around the coastline and this Department in association with maritime Local Authorities monitors the process generally. Of the 5,800km of coastline in the Republic, some 3,000km comprises "soft coastline" consisting of sandy beaches, sand dunes and clay cliffs. Erosion rates around the coast range from 0 at stable locations to a maximum of about 1 to 2 metres per annum in some areas of the east coast. In general, erosion of a coastline takes place gradually but in some cases an individual storm or a cliff collapse will lead to sudden spectacular changes.

The types of land and property under threat from coastal erosion are as diverse as the locations in which the problem is occurring. Areas under threat include private land, land of marginal agricultural value, public infrastructure, areas of ecological importance and natural heritage areas. The rate of coastal erosion can also be affected by economic and amenity activities and usages in the coastal zone. For example pressure on beach and dune systems through large numbers of visitors can accelerate the process of erosion.

The approach to coast protection works in Ireland was until recently based primarily on "hard" solutions involving heavy civil engineering works, for example, rock armour revetments. Such works are very expensive. These cost considerations, coupled with concerns about the potential physical impacts of such works on the coastline have led in recent years to a greater emphasis on "soft" engineering solutions and environmentally friendly coast protection schemes, for example, sand fencing, beach nourishment.

A Value for Money report in March 2002 highlighted the need for a more strategic focus in addressing the problem of coastal erosion in Ireland. In the light of this the Department initiated a coast protection strategy study in 2003. The study addresses the nature and extent of erosion at various locations and different types of coastline in Ireland and seeks to identify the most effective means, technically, financially and environmentally, in responding to particular instances and types of erosion. As part of this study detailed surveys are carried out of the coastline and will form a baseline for accurately calculating coastal erosion levels. The pilot phase of this study is scheduled to be completed in summer 2006.