In June 2004, the Marine Institute agreed in consultation with the DCMNR to undertake the preparation of a new National Marine Research and Innovation Strategy for the period 2007-2013 over an 18-month period, to deliver on the following key actions:
-
A national foresight exercise to create a shared vision for the development of the marine sector to 2020.
-
Preparation of a clearly defined National Marine Knowledge, Research & Innovation Strategy for the period 2007-2013 through engagement in a wide-ranging consultation process with the public and private sector and the general public.
-
Achievement of a greater national awareness of the value of the marine resource and better synergies among the productive sectors utilising the resource, resulting in an acceleration of the overall contribution of marine resources to Irish regional, social and economic development.
Processing Sea Change
Phase I: Preparation
A number of independent expert reports were commissioned which have been published during 2005 as a Marine Foresight Publications Series.
Phase II: Marine Foresight Exercise
In March-April 2005, the Marine Institute hosted a series of Marine Foresight Meetings, bringing together 29 international experts and 90 Irish experts representing the public, academic and commercial sectors, to take a forward look at the opportunities and challenges facing the marine sector, to identify future scenarios, objectives and research.
The outcomes of this process are reflected in the detailed accompanying document: Sea Change (2007-2013) PART II: Marine Foresight Exercise for Ireland.
Phase III – Identification of Research Requirements
Building on the scenarios and objectives developed in the foresight process, draft research requirements have been identified.
Phase IV: External Stakeholder Consultation (May 2005 – July 2006)
A stakeholder consultation process was initiated following the foresight process consisting of:
- Interagency meetings to further define and refine research requirements.
- Briefings with Industry Representative Groups.
- Consultation with Third Level Institutions.
- Stakeholder Meeting – Dublin Castle 12th July (over 300 invitees)
Further consultation has taken place with stakeholders throughout 2006.
Phase V: Preparation and Launch of Sea Change
A new seven-year strategy for marine research and innovation (Sea Change) was launched by Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Mr. Noel Dempsey T.D. on the 16th February 2007.
Both the Sea Change Strategy document and the associated Marine Foresight Exercise are available to download from the Marine Institute Library. Alternatively to request copies or for further information please contact institute.mail@marine.ie.