Irish Government Pledges EUR 15 Million for Marine Mapping Programme

Ireland’s Minister for Natural Resources, Fergus O’Dowd, T.D. has pledged EUR 15 million for continuation of “the most valuable resource for marine research and development in Ireland and beyond”.

This 5 year-scheme, which will cover 125,000 square kilometres of underwater territory, will benefit many sectors besides offshore renewable energy projects.

Minister O’Dowd said: “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.”

The programme is funded by Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and managed by Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI), in conjunction with the Marine Institute (MI).

Offshore WIND Staff, December 31, 2013; Image: dcenr