Coastal Erosion
Dail Éireann — 2026-01-22
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James Browne (FF), Wexford

I thank Deputy Byrne for raising the important issue of coastal erosion. It is a matter he has raised on numerous occasions.
My Department recognises the significant risks that coastal erosion and flooding present to our coastlines in the context of climate change. It is clear that climate change is presenting significant challenges, with many areas experiencing more frequent extreme weather events and changes in environmental conditions. Ireland is not immune from these challenges, including those associated with coastal erosion and flooding.
Responding effectively to these challenges requires a co-ordinated, evidence-based and long-term approach. Our local authorities are responsible for managing coastal erosion within their own administrative areas. The Office of Public Works has the responsibility for all technical assessment, including monitoring and mapping coastal risks, supporting research, and funding local authorities to undertake coastal protection works.
My Department collaborates with the OPW and relevant local authorities to support informed, consistent and sustainable responses to coastal erosion nationwide and provides policy leadership and co-ordination. Ireland's approach to coastal change management is guided by the work of the interdepartmental group on the national coastal change management strategy. This was established by the Government to support informed decision-making on how best to manage the coastline in light of future risks and planning needs.
In October 2023, this group published a scoping report setting out 15 recommendations to inform the development of a national coastal change management strategy. These recommendations are intended to facilitate key decisions to address and manage the impacts of coastal change over the short, medium and long term.
The recommendations are organised around three key areas: strengthening governance and capacity; improving understanding of coastal risks and identifying possible technical responses; and developing appropriate management approaches to coastal change. Progress on this work is being overseen by an interdepartmental steering group, which meets to advance the policy framework outlined in the report. The management of coastal change and the consideration of appropriate responses must take place within the context of the overall national policy framework and the respective roles of Departments, agencies and local authorities.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2026-01-22/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:54:32+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-01-22