A major plan on how to manage the marine-related industrial development and growth along the Shannon Estuary is being launched today.
The 100km-long estuary, which stretches from Limerick Docks down to Loop Head and Kerry Head, is one of Europe's deepest natural water channels.
It already supports major industries such as the power stations at Moneypoint in Clare and Tarbert in Kerry, as well as Aughinish Alumina, Shannon Airport and Foynes Port, where it can accommodate some of the world's biggest tankers.
A new marine and land-based plan aims to identify the type and locations of future industrial growth and employment.
It is weighted strongly in favour of growing its major shipping activities and protecting its commercial shipping lanes.
But there are also plans to develop marine, tourism, leisure and recreation activities, as well as fishing and aquaculture activities.
It is also a special area of conservation for birds and marine life.
Clare County Manager Tom Coughlin, who chaired the group that drew up the plan, said the challenge will be achieving a careful balance between promoting growth and jobs, and protecting the estuary as a natural resource.
