A typical small yacht marina can generate more than three-quarters of a million euros annually for a local economy, according to a new organisation set up to promote international standards at Irish marinas, writes Lorna Siggins Marine Correspondent.

The Irish Marina Operators' Association has been formed by 18 of the island's coastal marinas on both sides of the Border, and has the backing of the Irish Marine Federation and the Marine Institute.

The association will eventually embrace marinas on inland waterways, and intends to provide a forum for operators committed to development of the sector.

It also aims to influence policy, establish high standards and provide training, promotion and more competitive procurement procedures for the industry.

The Marine Institute is supporting the new association by providing a series of workshops that will focus on improving the quality of services and standards at marinas here, and the establishment of a network of European marina operators.

The institute has successfully bid for an EU Interreg-funded programme that will support this initiative.

"Ireland has benefited from substantial investment in marina development in the past few years, with a growth in the number of marinas from six in 1996 to 19 in 2003," Ms Anne Wilkinson of the Marine Institute said.

"In marina development terms, Ireland is in an early development stage compared to our European neighbours. Nevertheless our marinas can make a significant impact in regional locations."

A typical 50-80 berth marina can generate between €500,000 and €850,000 annually for the local economy, the Irish Marine Operators' Association says.

Ms Wilkinson added: "By aiming to stimulate best practice and achieve international marina standards, the association will maximise the potential for growth and development in this sector."