I have received a copy of the report of the National Coastal Erosion Committee, "Coastal Management — A Case for Action". This is a valuable report in that it indicates the extent of the coastal erosion problem affecting the Irish coastline. The report is particularly welcome in that it should help raise the awareness generally about coastal and marine problems. The report also contains recommendations regarding the institutional and legal framework which might be adopted to implement a comprehensive coast protection programme.
Primary responsibility for coast protection rests with local coastal authorities, some of which have undertaken protection work themselves. The role of the Department of the Marine is to facilitate the implementation of permanent protection schemes, where warranted, to prevent progressive erosion by the sea.