The Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) today announced the publication of a new report titled “Review of Impacts of Geophysical and Geotechnical Surveys on Marine Fish and Shellfish in Irish Waters”, prepared by Aquafact (part of the APEM group) on behalf of the authority.
The report provides a summary of current scientific knowledge of how marine geotechnical and geophysical site investigation surveys impact on fish and shellfish in Irish waters. While the report has specific relevance to MARA’s role under the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021 (MAP Act), it expands the evidence base for all those involved in the regulation of the Maritime Area. It provides practical guidance for MARA, applicants and other stakeholders involved in the preparation and assessment of Maritime Usage Licence (MUL) applications for marine site investigation surveys by identifying international best practice approaches to mitigating impacts.
The report also identifies areas where targeted future research can be undertaken to broaden the knowledge base for evidence-based decision regulation in the maritime area.
The publication comes at a time of increasing offshore marine activity within MARA’s regulatory remit, including offshore renewable energy development, subsea infrastructure projects, and marine site investigations. It provides a synthesis of the current scientific understanding of the impacts of site investigation surveys on fish and shellfish, drawing on peer-reviewed literature, grey literature and international guidance.
Laura Brien, Chief Executive of MARA commented:
“This report will support informed decision-making across the marine sector. As activity in Irish offshore waters continues to grow, it is essential that decision making continues to be underpinned by robust scientific understanding and effective environmental stewardship. The publication of the report reflects MARA’s ongoing commitment to regulate effectively and impartially, while supporting sustainable marine development.”
John Evans, Director of Maritime Usage Licencing and Planning Advisory Services at MARA said
“The publication of this review represents an important step in strengthening the evidence base around geophysical and geotechnical surveys in Irish waters. Understanding the potential impacts on marine fish and shellfish is critical to informing robust environmental assessments and supporting evidence-based decision-making for offshore activities.
This research will help ensure that assessments are grounded in the best available scientific information supporting the sustainable development of Ireland’s maritime sector while protecting marine ecosystems and biodiversity.”
The report, Review of Impacts of Geophysical and Geotechnical Surveys on Marine Fish and Shellfish in Irish Waters, is now available at: www.maritimeregulator.ie