Need for marine protection highlighted locally

Frustration has been expressed locally over the government’s approach to Marine Protected Areas.The legislation aims to protect, conserve and restore biodiversity in marine ecosystems by designating 30% of Ireland's by 2030.In recent days, a bottlenose dolphin, affectionately known as ‘Bawn’, has chosen to raise her young calf inshore, right along the north west coast.While the development could be seen as a heartwarming local wildlife story, one local eco-tourism operator has raised concern over the future of marine conservation locally.Skipper of the Kiwi girl, Declan Kilgannon says if not implemented sooner, there could be severe knock-on effects: