A leading scientist warned today that Ireland is shrinking year by year.
The coastlines of both Republic and Northern Ireland are vulnerable and poorly managed, Dr Andrew Cooper of the University of Ulster said at an international conference held in Co Antrim.
Every year an estimated 750 acres of coastline is lost to the sea and with the situation likely to get worse, urgent action is required, Dr Cooper said.
Dr Cooper, head of the Coastal Research Group, said Northern Ireland's current coastal protection plans fell far short of recent EU recommendations.
He warned climate changes in the Earth's atmosphere will mean that storms will be getting more frequent and powerful. The North Atlantic will be getting rougher and shorelines, especially on Ireland's west and north coasts, could suffer increasing damage and destruction he said.
"Much closer co-operation between planning, conservation, social and development interests is required if we are to achieve the goal of Integrated Coastal Zone Management advocated by the EU," he said.
He delivered his speech to more than 160 scientists gathered for the 7th International Coastal symposium, held this week in Templepatrick and hosted by the University of Ulster.
PA