Maritime Area Planning Act 2021

In short

This law establishes a new framework for planning and regulating activities in Ireland's maritime area, creating a new authority to manage these activities. It aims to ensure proper planning, environmental protection, and legal oversight for all maritime uses.

What it regulates

• The creation and amendment of maritime spatial plans (MSPs) and designated maritime area plans (DMAPs).
• The establishment and functions of the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA).
• The process for obtaining Maritime Area Consent (MAC) for certain activities.
• The licensing of various maritime usages.

Who it concerns

• Public bodies involved in maritime planning.
• Individuals and entities undertaking activities in the maritime area.

Key points

• The law establishes the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) to oversee maritime activities.
• It requires Maritime Area Consent (MAC) for certain activities before seeking development permission.
• The law outlines processes for public participation in the development of maritime spatial plans and designated maritime area plans.
• It includes provisions for the enforcement of regulations, including the issuance of enforcement notices and potential suspension of authorisations.