Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 January 2026
9. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to a small-scale oil slick at a location (details supplied); the actions he will take to ensure that any damage to the biosphere is limited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6763/26]
View answer10. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding Ireland’s preparedness for a large-scale oil spill off the coast that impacts on both water and land wildlife; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6764/26]
View answer11. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the actions he will take to engage with Uisce Éireann in relation to preparedness for a large-scale oil spill off the coast that impacts on both water and land wildlife; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6765/26]
View answer12. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the actions he will take to engage with local authorities in relation to preparedness for a large-scale oil spill off the coast that impacts on both water and land wildlife; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6766/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 9, 10, 11 and 12 together.
It is my understanding that the Irish Coast Guard (IRCG) was made aware of a potential oil pollution incident on Killiney Beach on December 30th 2025. I understand, as the relevant authority, Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has responded to the incident in accordance with its own pollution emergency (spill contingency) plan, as provided for the in National Maritime Oil/HNS Spill Contingency Plan.
The Sea Pollution (Amendment) Act 1999 anticipates a requirement on coastal local authorities to develop and implement oil and/or HNS spill contingency plans. The National Maritime Oil/HNS Spill Contingency Plan establishes Ireland’s national framework and strategy to coordinate marine pollution preparedness and response. All relevant entities, such as coastal local authorities, harbour authorities or operators of off-shore facilities, must have a pollution emergency (spill contingency) plan and incident management plans, including for wildlife care. The IRCG, as the competent national authority, ensures oversight and approval of these contingency plans. The IRCG works closely with relevant local entities to ensure they have plans in place and that the personnel involved are adequately trained. The IRCG holds regular training and exercises in maritime pollution incidents to support preparedness in local authorities, harbours and principal emergency services.
There is a comprehensive incident command system in place to handle incidents of incremental scale. Following international practice and guidance, Ireland has implemented a three-tiered approach to all aspects of marine pollution readiness and response. This approach means an appropriate response capability is identified and available to deal with spills commensurate to the risks.
The IRCG’s new fixed wing service provides additional maritime environmental protection measures, including investigation of pollution reports and pollution monitoring capabilities. The IRCG also maintains a national stockpile of oil spill response equipment. The principal stockpile is situated in Blanchardstown, just outside Dublin and two smaller stockpiles are maintained in Killybegs, Co. Donegal and Castletownbere, Co. Cork.
In the event of a major maritime event within Ireland’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), Ireland can utilise the provisions of the Sea Pollution Acts to request assistance from neighbouring States. As an EU Member State, Ireland can access a range of services from the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) to help respond quickly, effectively, and efficiently to oil or chemical marine pollution incidents from ships within Ireland’s EEZ. Ireland is also party to a number of international agreements that can provide assistance and support in the event of a major pollution incident. Furthermore, the IRCG has contractual arrangements in place to support response to pollution incidents.
