Our Work

MARITIME AREA CONSENT (MAC)

Maritime Area Consent (MAC) – MARA assesses and issues determinations on MAC applications.  A MAC is the right to occupy a part of the maritime area, conditional on securing other necessary approvals.  MARA is responsible for the fit and proper assessment of the applicant and the proposed project. A MAC is the gateway into the planning system as a MAC is required before any planning applications can be made to An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) or the coastal local authorities in respect of the maritime area.  The proposed development is subject to a single comprehensive environmental assessment by the relevant planning authority. The MAC can also be subject to a competitive process, based on financial or non-financial criteria or a combination of both.

MARITIME USAGE LICENCE (MUL)

MARA is responsible for authorising specified maritime usages as set out in Schedule 7 of the MAP Act. MARA cannot issue a MUL for which an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required.  Where an EIA is required, a MAC must be applied for.  MARA undertakes an appropriate assessment screening on all applications for a MUL and an appropriate assessment where required.

COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT OF MACS, LICENCES AND OFFSHORE DEVELOPMENT CONSENTS

MARA is responsible for assessing the compliance with conditions of MULs and MACs and development consents granted by An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP). MARA can undertake investigations and issue enforcement notices for breaches of these conditions and can revoke or seek suspension of a MAC or MUL.

ADMINISTRATION OF THE FORESHORE CONSENTS

MARA is responsible for the administration of existing authorisations issued under the Foreshore Act 1933. MARA enforces conditions of these consents and collects revenue.

INVESTIGATIONS AND PROSECUTIONS

MARA has powers of enforcement and can take enforcement action against breaches of conditions of MACs, MULs, and authorisations issued under the Foreshore Act 1933 and conditions attached to planning permission in the maritime area. MARA can take prosecutions and injunctions for unauthorised development or breach of a development permission in the maritime area. MARA has the enforcement powers of a planning authority for this purpose.

FOSTERING & PROMOTING CO-OPERATION BETWEEN REGULATORS OF THE MARITIME AREA

MARA has oversight and knowledge of the entire maritime area. This positions MARA as a key enabler of Ireland’s ambitions for its maritime resource, as well as acting as its guardian. Our maritime area is a shared space, with many competing priorities and interests. To ensure regulatory certainty and avoid duplication of activities, MARA will encourage co-operation among other maritime regulators.