Monthly Archives: March 2015

Maritime Area and Foreshore (Amendment) Bill

The Irish Marine Federation (IMF) has given a cautious welcome to the forecasted changes to the foreshore bill designed to streamline the development consent process for the foreshore.

The government has published its Legislation Programme for Spring/Summer 2015 and the Maritime Area and Foreshore (Amendment) Bill is among a list of key Bills of interest which currently before the Houses of the Oireachtas.

The Bill will streamline the development consent process for the foreshore, including the integration of certain parts of the foreshore consent process (under the Foreshore Act 1933) with the existing on-land planning system.

The IMF has long held out that the failure to manage Ireland’s natural resources “in a consistent or coherent manner” has led to serious setbacks in the support of marine tourism on the island.

Irish Marine Federation AGM To Discuss Industry Priorities

The Irish Marine Federation (IMF) meets in Dublin tomorrow to address priorities in the months ahead after a torrid time for the marine industry in Ireland.

In a notice to members Chairman David O’Brien says ‘like all small businesses, the IMF is building anew after recession’.

In a cautious note of optimism, O’Brien adds ‘Although it still remains to be seen if we really have ‘turned a corner’, as our politicians like to tell us, nothing can stay dormant indefinitely.

The IMF expect new opportunities to arise as the economy improves and consumer confidence grows.

O’Brien explains that it the IMF was only able to keep afloat in recession by slashing costs and running almost entirely by volunteer committee.

‘We may be a long way from the dizzy heights of the IMF 2006 Boat Show at the RDS but equally we’re a long way from 1984 when VAT was 35%, the top rate of income tax 65% and mortgage rates hit 16%. Even then we managed to run a show…! he adds,

In whatever form the next wave of activity comes, the IMF says it is ready and waiting to embark on a new chapter for the industry.

The IMF is keen to take on board views and suggestions and is on a recruitment drive.

The IMF gam takes place tomorrow at the National Yacht Club in Dun Laoghaire followed by a meeting of its Board who will focus on identifying IMF priorities for 2015 and 2016.