Workshop to examine Ireland/Wales marine environmental projects

The Ireland/Wales INTERREG-IIIA Programme (2000-2006) is currently supporting seven co-operative projects and networks in marine resource development, environmental awareness and conservation with a value in excess of €3.8 million.  The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) is providing 75% grant –aid totalling €2.91 million (€1.88m to Wales, €1.03m Ireland) through the INTERREG-IIIA Programme. Two further projects, with an estimated total value of €2.21 million, are currently under contract negotiation.

On Wednesday 15th October, the Marine Institute, in association with the Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly, will host a Workshop at Dooleys Hotel, Waterford, to present the initial results of these co-operative projects.

The Workshop line-up includes an exciting suite of co-operative projects ranging from the conservation of the leatherback turtle in the southern Irish Sea to Coastal Zone Management, aquaculture of oysters and mussels, water quality and state of the art modelling and monitoring systems. The line-up also includes a community based project focussing on restoring and increasing the amenity value of coastlines.

A new call for proposals is anticipated in November 2003, with special emphasis being placed on local community based partnerships between Ireland and Wales.

The Workshop will be of interest to public authorities, educational institutes, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) with an interest in marine resource development, marine conservation, marine environmental awareness and protection in the INTERREG-IIIA (Ireland/Wales) area.

The Workshop is open to all interested parties, though pre-registration is required. Cost €15 to cover venue, light lunch and abstracts.

ENDS