Displaying items by tag: Merger

27th July 2013

Irish Coast Guard To Be Merged With Marine Survey Office

#Coastguard - The Irish Coast Guard is to be merged with the Marine Survey Office, as The Irish Times reports.

Cabinet approval has been granted for Transport Minister Leo Varadkar's reorganisation plans, which will see the creation of a new body - the Irish Maritime Administration - that would be responsible for both services.

The changes come a year after the publication of the 'value for money' report commissioned by the Department of Transport to identify where efficiencies could be achieved in Ireland's maritime services.

Among a series of changes intended to shore up the State's maritime safety strategy, the merger will also reportedly see coastguard radio staff reduced from three-man to two-man watches - although Minister Varadkar has denied there will be any staff shortages.

The Irish Times has much more on the story HERE.

Published in Coastguard

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About the Loughs Agency

The Loughs Agency is a governmental body established under the 1998 Agreement between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of Ireland. The Agency's goal is to provide sustainable social, economic, and environmental benefits by effectively conserving, managing, promoting, and developing the fisheries and marine resources of the Foyle and Carlingford areas.

The Agency's governing legislation confers several specific functions, including the promotion of development of Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough for commercial and recreational purposes in respect of marine, fishery, and aquaculture matters. Moreover, the Agency is responsible for managing, conserving, protecting, improving, and developing the inland fisheries of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Additionally, the Agency has the task of developing and licensing aquaculture, as well as the development of marine tourism.

The Loughs Agency reports to the North South Ministerial Council and its government Sponsor Departments, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland, and the Department of the Environment, Climate, and Communications (DECC) in Ireland. The Departments fund the Agency on an equal basis.

The Loughs Agency's focus on sustainable development is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, environment, and local communities in the Foyle and Carlingford areas. The Agency's efforts to conserve and enhance the region's marine resources, including fisheries and aquaculture, are expected to benefit local communities, promote tourism, and contribute to economic growth.

In conclusion, the Loughs Agency plays a vital role in promoting the sustainable social, economic, and environmental development of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Its work on marine conservation and development is crucial in ensuring the long-term viability of the region's natural resources and in promoting sustainable economic growth.