Climate event to address legal issues

A TWO-DAY conference highlighting the inadequacies in Ireland’s enforcement of environmental regulations will begin in Cork tomorrow.

Enforcement of Environmental Regulations has been organised by the Sherkin Island Marine Station, a privately run and funded organisation carrying out long-term monitoring programmes on the flora and fauna of Roaringwater Bay and surrounding areas.

Sherkin Island Marine Station founder Matt Murphy said more than 150 delegates are expected to attend the event at the Carrigaline Court Hotel.

Among the speakers are Environmental Protection Agency director general Mary Kelly and Batt O’Keeffe, Minister for State in the Department of the Environment.

The event will also feature inputs from leading legal experts who will give an insight into the current waste management enforcement mechanisms in Ireland and speakers from the United States, Canada, Britain and Holland will give details of their systems.

“Enforcement is a big issue now but is going to be a major issue in years to come,” said Matt Murphy.

“Environmental enforcement in Ireland is still in its infancy. Over the past 50 years we have paid lip service to problems in the environment. With the establishment of the EPA and strict regulations from the EU in Brussels, progress is being made.

“However, this is mainly in waste management and water quality. The speakers will highlight many of the issues that need addressing in Ireland, with the international speakers giving an insight into enforcement in their own countries. We believe our programme will provide interesting and informative debate.”