Irish Offshore Oil and Gas Strategic Environmental Assessments (IOSEA)

The Irish Offshore Strategic Environmental Assessment (IOSEA5) was carried out to assess any potential impacts associated with activities conducted under petroleum exploration and production authorisations within Irish offshore waters. The aim is to promote sustainable development by the early integration of environmental considerations into any licensing activity. This involved public consultation with submissions and observations received considered as part of its preparation. IOSEA5 provides those working in and using the Irish offshore with an operational environmental baseline against which they can conduct their work and ensures the effective protection of the marine environment.

The objectives of the SEA were:

• to inform the Department of specific environmental considerations in its future petroleum activities under licensing rounds in the Atlantic Margin Basins, as well as the award of licences in the Celtic and Irish Seas
• to provide exploration companies working offshore with an operational baseline against which they can conduct their work and ensure the protection of the marine environment