Ireland’s first Marine National Park to be supported by new National Parks legislation
Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, has today (Friday 24th July 2026) announced his intention to develop a National Parks Bill which will place Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí Ireland’s first Marine National Park on a dedicated statutory footing for the first time.
The proposal to develop the Bill was brought to Cabinet earlier this week by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD.
To date, National Parks have been cared for through a range of legislative and administrative arrangements. Today’s announcement on the development of a dedicated, comprehensive legislative framework will enable the State to go further by establishing management planning and governance frameworks, developing transparent designation processes, facilitating public access, recreation, education and research, and aligning Ireland with international best practice.
Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara will benefit from the proposed National Parks Bill, which will establish a clear statutory framework for the protection and management of its marine, coastal and island ecosystems.
Covering approximately 31,000 hectares, the park protects habitats of national and international importance, including coastal waters, lands and islands along the Dingle coast.
Minister O’Sullivan said:
“The forthcoming National Parks Bill will represent one of the most significant developments in nature conservation legislation in the history of the State, and it couldn’t come at a more important time. We know that we need to lead nature restoration on public land, and our National Parks are central to achieving this. I want Ireland’s first National Parks Bill to make the goal for these amazing places crystal clear: to protect and restore nature.”
He continued:
“Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí represents a new chapter in Irish conservation. This legislation will help ensure that Ireland’s marine biodiversity is protected and restored through a strong and enduring legal framework.”
Philip Buckley, Divisional Manager, Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, said:
“Marine conservation presents unique opportunities and challenges. This legislation will provide the governance framework needed to support the long-term protection and restoration of these globally significant marine and coastal ecosystems.”
Niall Ó Donnchú, Director General, NPWS, said:
“I warmly welcome the Government’s decision to draft a Bill to provide a modern statutory framework for the designation and stewardship of our National Parks.
As we look to the future, it is essential that our National Parks are supported by legislation that is fit for contemporary purpose: legislation that clarifies operations and management across the National Park system. It must also strengthen our authority and enforcement powers as we in NPWS work tirelessly to protect these extraordinary natural gems.
We look forward to working closely with Minister Browne and Minister O’Sullivan in drafting this important legislation, ensuring that it provides a robust foundation to safeguard our National Parks for the generations to come.”