Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 June 2024
176. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide details of the Government’s plans to address the continuing impacts of coastal erosion at the Murrough in Wicklow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27645/24]
View answerThe scoping report of the Interdepartmental Group on coastal change management, which was co-chaired by my Department and the Office of Public Works, can be accessed at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/9a967-report-of-the-inter-departmental-group-on-national-coastal-change-management-strategy/
Through the 15 recommendations set out in the report, an evidence-based coastal change management strategy facilitating key decisions to be taken to address and manage the impacts of coastal change over the short, medium and longer terms is being put in place. This involves an integrated, whole-of-government approach, with actions across many sectors, and my Department will play a key role in coordinating and driving this essential work programme.
This work is being progressed by an interdepartmental steering group which is chaired by my Department.
Tackling coastal change management in response to climate change will be complex, multifaceted and dynamic, demanding a range of research, policy and consequential management responses.
My Department acts as the policy lead, in particular co-ordinating the work across Government with respect to responding in a co-ordinated way to the challenge of coastal change.
The Office of Public Works acts as the national lead coordinating body for the assessment of coastal change hazards and risks and the assessment of technical options and constraints.
With respect to responding to coastal change local authorities are, generally, responsible for the management of matters associated with coastal change and erosion in their respective administrative areas. Other coastal risks such as to transport, agricultural, business, are addressed locally and through appropriate sectoral responses. As Minister, I am precluded from commenting on particular projects or locations which may necessitate planning applications.
