Consultative National Maritime Pollution Response Forum

The Department of Transport (DoT) and Irish Coast Guard (IRCG) are inviting individuals to attend their event entitled Consultative National Maritime Pollution Response Forum  taking place from 2pm - 5.30pm on Tuesday 10th November 2026.

This year’s in-person event will be the review of Ireland’s National Maritime Oil and HNS Spill Contingency Plan (NCP), which kicked off on 30 September last.  Consisting of an online public/stakeholder consultation, the deadline for submissions is 5pm on 4 November. A summary overview of submissions received will be shared at the Forum.

Draft Agenda

1400-1410: Opening of meeting and welcome
1410-1445: National Contingency Plan - Purpose of plan and review process
1445-1530: Recent Developments - Presentations on legislation, technology and operating environment
1530-1550: Refreshment break
1550-1700: Workshop - Refreshing the National Contingency Plan
1700-1725: Report back and plenary discussion
1725-1730: Closing remarks

Objectives of the workshop

  • Identify emerging maritime pollution risks
  • Review preparedness and response arrangements
  • Capture lessons from incidents and exercises
  • Agree priority areas for updating the NCP

Possible questions

  • What are the most significant future pollution risks?
  • What lessons have been learned from national and/or international incidents?
  • Are current governance and incident command structures fit for purpose?
  • What capability gaps require attention?
  • How can interagency coordination be strengthened?
  • What should be prioritised in the revised NCP?
  • How can performance be best measured having regard to (1) Prevention, (2) Planning and Preparedness (3) Recovery and Response

In-person attendance is strongly encouraged but online participation may be facilitated, subject to demand. If you would prefer to join remotely, please let us know by return.  Also, if you are sending a representative on your behalf or if you are no longer the appropriate contact person for this area within your organisation/company, please feel free to forward the invite as necessary.

Should you have any queries about the event in the meantime, please email OilHNSPlan.MSG@transport.gov.ie.