Marine research commitment

Covering some 125,000km² of underwater territory, the national marine mapping programme (INFOMAR) project is producing new mapping and integrated products covering the Irish maritime space.

Fergus O’Dowd, Minister for Natural Resources, said: “I am delighted to announce the continuation of the INFOMAR project. This is a world class undertaking which is providing crucial information towards the development of Ireland’s 220 million acres that lie under the sea.”

It provides seabed surveys, which are used in all activities from planning for offshore renewable energy projects to ensure shipping lanes are safely charted.

“I am particularly pleased to see the programme focus on adding value to the data and ensuring INFOMAR plays its part in developing jobs and growth,” Mr O’Dowd added.

The decision to continue the project was taken following a second full independent review of its operations.

Since beginning eight years ago, the project has conducted detailed surveys along the South West, South and East coasts and completed mapping of most Irish bays and harbours, including Dublin, Cork, Shannon and Galway.