2007 Press Releases

19 Apr 2007

The future of Coastal Management - UCC Conference



The impact of housing developments including holiday homes, climate change, and the consequences of the ban on drift netting for salmon, are among some of the issues facing coastal communities today.  These issues were the focus for discussion at a conference recently held in UCC when 165 delegates gathered together from coastal communities, government agencies, academic institutions and coastal industries.   

Delegates and speakers indicated an overwhelming level of support for processes to be put in place that will provide for Integrated Coastal Zone Management. The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (DCMNR), who are responsible for foreshore administration, announced that a review of legislation and a strategic framework for coastal management will be facilitated.

Valerie Cummins, Director of UCC's Coastal & Marine Resources Centre, and conference organiser explained "The need for better management of our coastal resources to sustain coastal communities is of utmost importance for future coastal management." In welcoming the announcement by the DCMNR, Ms Cummins pointed towards the benefits of the conference in pushing the agenda forward.

"We need to optimise existing frameworks for enforcement and compliance with regulations pertaining to the coastal zone, to deal with issues ranging from beach safety to safeguarding biodiversity.  More support must also be given to facilitate the role of community groups who are highly active in promoting their local beaches and waterfronts" said Ms Cummins.  

The conference was organised as part of a new initiative to provide an Irish Coastal Network (ICoNet), which brings together scientists, policy maker, practitioners and other stakeholders working in the coastal zone.  Representatives from statutory agencies include the DCMNR (including closing remarks from the General Secretary, Mr Brendan Tuohy), the Marine Institute, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Udaras Na Gaeltachta, Bord Iascaigh Mhara, the Heritage Council and other.  The conference was sponsored by the DCMNR.

Note:
The Irish Coastal Network (ICoNet) is chaired and facilitated by CMRC, UCC.  It links to national coastal networks across Europe through the Encora project.

425MMcS


« Back to 2007 Press Releases

                 

University College Cork

Coláiste na hOllscoile Corcaigh

College Road, Cork T12 K8AF

Top