In order to achieve the aims and objectives of Sea Change, the Strategy is being implemented via three Research Measures (Industry, Discovery and Policy Support) and two Supporting Programmes (Innovation and Infrastructure).
The Marine Institute has been tasked with managing and co-ordinating the implementation of Sea Change over the seven-year period. The Marine Institute has established the Sea Change Management Unit to manage the co-ordination and implementation of Sea Change.
As Sea Change is a national strategy, a partnership of government departments, development and funding agencies, research performers and industry is therefore required to ensure successful implementation. To achieve the successful implementation of Sea Change an implementation framework (consisting of a High-Level Steering Group and External Advisory Groups) has been established.
Overview of Activity 2007/2008
During 2007 and 2008 a significant level of investment was made in marine research, in 2007 alone, an investment of ~ €65.4m was committed across all of the Sea Change Research Programmes. This was comprised of:
- €46.4m of which came from MI/DAFF funds; and
- €19m from other national and international programmes.
Full details of this investment and other Sea Change activities for 2007 are available in the 2007 Sea Change Annual Progress Report (PDF. 3.5MB). Figures for 2008 will be published shortly.
The focus of activity in 2008 consisted of building on the significant achievements of 2007, including the substantial investment committed to marine research (as outlined in the 2007 Sea Change Annual Progress Report), and initiating a number of significant new strategic initiatives. Specifically, the focus of activity has been on:
- Additional investment aimed at building on past achievements and addressing research and capacity gaps;
- Managing research programmes and projects;
- Strengthening engagement with stakeholders; and
- Stimulating and supporting participation in international competitive research programmes.
For further information on Sea Change please contact members of the Sea Change Management Unit.