Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity)
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1417. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government for an update on the progress on the Marine Protected Areas Bill 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41042/25]

Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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1596. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government for an update on the development of marine protected areas legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43059/25]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1417 and 1596 together.

The Marine Protected Areas legislation is at an advanced stage of preparation and is intended to be finalised as soon as possible.

In light of the forthcoming transfer of the marine environment function from my Department to the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment on 1 August, a review is being undertaken to identify the optimal legislative vehicle to provide for MPA designation.

A decision will be taken shortly after the transfer is complete. This decision will prioritise the approach that enables the earliest possible designation of an ecologically coherent network of MPAs, ensuring Ireland meets its target of protecting 30% of its maritime area by 2030.