Proinsias De Rossa
Ceist:51 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for the Marine if he will take an initiative to have convened an Irish Sea conference along the lines of the North Sea Conference; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Irish Sea Conference.
There are significant differences between the North Sea and the Irish Sea. For example, the Irish Sea does not have the pollution problems of the North Sea, which are caused largely by rivers and outfalls from the highly urbanised and industrial areas of northern Europe. Secondly, nine countries border the North Sea, compared to just Ireland and the UK around the Irish Sea. The conference mechanism is essential, therefore in reaching agreement between so many states.
There are regular meetings between the Irish and UK authorities regarding the Irish Sea. A group of scientists, working as the Irish Sea Study Group, are currently finalising a report which covers different aspects of the Irish Sea. The report will be discussed at a conference to be held in October in the Isle of Man. I believe that these arrangements are both appropriate and effective for the management of the Irish Sea.