News

EMD Workshops Applications Now Open for May 2025 in Cork The Government of Ireland wish to inform all stakeholders that the call is now open inviting groups or individuals to apply to organise a stakeholder workshop as part of EMD on 22nd and 23rd May 2025 in Cork. As part of the programme of EMD events, there are expected to be around 20 workshops across two days covering specific marine related themes. These stakeholder workshops are at the core of […]

Circular MP01/2024 MARA received Circular MP01-2024 from the Department of Climate, Environment and Communications on 15 November 2024. In accordance with Section 44 (c) of the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021, MARA will have regard to this Circular when considering applications for Maritime Area Consents or Marine Usage Licences which relate to offshore renewable energy activity.

MARA welcomes approval of the South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP) The Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) welcomes the Oireachtas’ approval of the South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP). This first forward spatial plan for offshore renewable energy marks a new chapter in managing our maritime area clearly outlining a plan lead approach for how the State will manage Ireland’s rich maritime resources in a sustainable and responsible manner. This plan represents the culmination of collaboration, and consultation

RFT: The Design of a Framework for Competitive Award of Maritime Area Consents The Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) has on 6th September 2024, launched a call for assistance in designing a framework which it will use for awarding MACs on the basis of a competitive process. The Closing date for receipt of tenders in respect of this call is 12 noon on Monday 14th October 2024. Further details available on eTenders.gov.ie at CfT: The Design of a Framework for

The 17 July 2024 will mark a year of operations for the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA). During the past 12 months the Board of MARA has been governing the organisation and preparing to deliver its first statement of strategy. MARA’s engagement process continues to develop and the Board, recently took the opportunity to gain further understanding of the diverse perspectives across our stakeholder ecosystem. At a recent visit to Galway, the first board away day, the Board took in

Important Update: Deadline to apply for MACs under section 75A of the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021 The deadline for applying for a MAC in accordance with Section 75A(1) is 17th July 2024 and, applicants are reminded to ensure completed applications accompanied by the specific fees need to be submitted before the deadline. Section 278 of the Historic a nd Archaeological Heritage and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023 amends the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021 (the Act) by the insertion of

To celebrate European Maritime Day and World Ocean Day, Wexford County Council, The Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA), Tomhaggard Clean Coasts Group and the local community came together to carry out a community clean at the Burrow beach in Kilmore Quay  last Friday (7th June). European Maritime Day and World Ocean Day seek to raise awareness of our seas and their importance and provides opportunities for all to learn about our incredible coastal habitats and take action for ocean health.

The detection of Unexploded Ordnance is a maritime safety issue and falls under the remit of the Irish Coast Guard (IRCG). MARA has no responsibility for the management of UXO in the maritime area but must be notified if UXO is identified. If UXO is identified, you must contact An Garda Síochána on 999/112 and you will be connected to the Regional Control Centre where you must report the location and all other relevant details. The designated Superintendent of An

MARA’s submission to the recent public consultation by the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications on the Draft Offshore Renewable Energy Future Framework Policy Statement is available at the following link: MARA-submission-to-FFPS-Feb.-2024.

Ireland’s relationship with the sea has helped define our nation’s culture and history. Our seas are a critical part of our identify as an Island nation. They are part of what makes us who we are. MARA – the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority, is an important part of that new National Marine Planning Framework. We were established in July 2023 as the state agency which will act as the regulator of the maritime area for the benefit of current and