New Marine Protection Strategy Launched

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has launched a new strategy to protect Northern Ireland’s marine environment over the next five years.

The Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Strategy for the Northern Ireland Inshore Region 2025–2030 sets out how Northern Ireland will further develop and manage its network of MPAs to safeguard key habitats and species, close remaining ecological gaps and support nature‑based solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Marine Protected Areas (MPA) are specially designated zones within the marine environment that have been identified as ecologically significant and deserving of enhanced protection.

The original MPA Strategy published in 2014 established a network of marine protected areas through a programme of such designations, enabling targeted conservation efforts.

Developed through extensive engagement with stakeholders across the marine, fisheries and environmental sectors, the MPA Strategy reflects a shared ambition to enhance biodiversity, improve resilience and secure long‑term benefits for coastal communities.

Launching the Strategy at Castle Espie, Minister Muir said: “Northern Ireland's outstanding marine environment is home to unique and internationally important species and habitats. Here in Strangford Lough, we have seagrass beds that support overwintering Brent Geese, rocky reefs with kelp forests and a range of species from starfish, anemones and crabs to seals and dolphins.

“The North Channel is home to the Harbour porpoise, and our north coast, the maerl seaweed beds at Red Bay and rare sponges at Rathlin Island are all fantastic examples of the rich biodiversity that our marine protected areas are helping to safeguard.

“Seagrass, kelp and native oysters are all also examples of blue carbon habitats, that demonstrate the role that the marine can play in meeting our climate targets. 

“We must build on the good work done to recognise the importance of our marine areas in providing vital habitats and in helping to mitigate and adapt to climate change.”

Minister Muir continued: “If we are to achieve a truly well-managed marine environment, it is essential that we maintain the positive momentum which has led to the recovery of key marine habitats.

“My Marine Protected Areas Strategy sets a clear, long‑term approach to support the recovery of our most important marine habitats and species and aligns closely with the ambition of the draft Northern Ireland Nature Recovery Strategy, by ensuring that marine habitats and species are protected, sustainably managed and restored alongside our efforts on land.

“This is an important milestone for nature in Northern Ireland - one that reflects robust scientific evidence, embraces partnership working, and commits us to safeguarding our marine environment for future generations.”

The Strategy is now available on the DAERA website: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/marine-protected-areas-strategy-northern-ireland-inshore-region-2025-2030.