The GRNP describes how they will adapt in the face of a rapidly changing environment, and thereby optimise service provision in terms of cost, risk and service level. The GRNP presents the GLAs’ plan in respect of the Global Positioning System (GPS), Galileo, Radiobeacon DGNSS, Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), enhanced Loran (eLoran) and Radar Beacons (Racons).

Dr Stuart Ruttle, chief executive of the Commissioners of Irish Lights said, ‘We, the GLAs, are proud of our shared heritage, providing and optimising radio navigation services for over sixty years. Our GRNP describes how we will take advantage of ongoing radionavigation improvements to deliver a flexible service that meets the needs of all users. We will always retain a physical aids to navigation backbone.’

Rear Admiral Roger Lockwood, chief executive of the Northern Lighthouse Board added, ‘Delivering the GRNP is the only way that we can maintain service levels in the context of a rapidly changing and unpredictable service provision environment. We will deploy our radionavigation services around the United Kingdom and Ireland in a way that balances cost, risk and service levels.’

Rear Admiral Jeremy de Halpert, executive chairman of Trinity House concluded, ‘The GRNP is all about the GLAs taking ownership of their future in a period of great change as radionavigation systems become much more predominant in the service mix of Aids to Navigation that we provide. The GRNP together with the decisions we are taking today will enable the emerging e-Navigation concept that is being developed by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA).’

When the GRNP is realised, it will individually and collectively influence the provision of all aids to navigation and the level of service the GLAs provide, delivering a reliable, efficient and cost effective Aids to Navigation Service for the benefit and safety of all mariners.