International Symposium on Transboundary and Collaborative Water Governance

PROCEEDINGS OF THE

“INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON TRANSBOUNDARY AND COLLABORATIVE WATER GOVERNANCE”

A gathering of global expertise focusing on transboundary and cross-border co-operation and governance for the protection of water, aquatic and marine systems.

Hosted by Loughs Agency, one of the longest-established cross-border environmental management and protection agencies in Europe.

Sharon McMahon, Loughs Agency CEO

1. Foreword

Loughs Agency is an agency of the Foyle, Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission (FCILC), established as one of the North South Implementation Bodies under the Good Friday / Belfast Agreement, constituted under the North South Co-operation (Implementation Bodies) (Northern Ireland) Order 1999 and the British Irish Agreement Acts 1999 and 2002. The Board of Loughs Agency reports to the North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC) and our government Sponsor Departments - the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) in Ireland and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland.

Loughs Agency is the successor of The Foyle Fisheries Commission which was set up in 1952 by the Irish and British Governments. The Foyle Fisheries Commission was the first cross-border body, empowered by parallel Acts of Parliament in the Stormont House of Commons and Dáil Éireann. For over 70 years, Loughs Agency and its predecessor The Foyle Fisheries Commission have been at the heart of collaborative governance.

“Nature doesn’t recognise borders and neither should we when it comes to protecting our environment”

In an era marked by climate crisis, safeguarding our aquatic resources is not just a responsibility, it is an urgent global imperative. No single government or jurisdiction can face these massive challenges alone. Clean drinking water, food security, biodiversity, the fight against habitat loss—these are issues that demand cooperation and collaboration. The ecosystem services our aquatic environments provide, connect us all. In the Foyle and Carlingford catchments our waters are not only habitat, they are economic engines, recreational hubs and environmental sanctuaries. Loughs Agency plays a pivotal role, tasked with conservation, scientific research and enforcing laws that protect these ecosystems from overfishing, pollution and other threats. Loughs Agency is proud to serve as a model for effective cross-border collaboration, safeguarding these waters for future generations.

The aim of the Symposium was to bring together scientists, academics, policymakers and stakeholders from across the globe to discuss the pressing challenges of cross-border cooperation and water governance on an international scale.

2. Introduction

Loughs Agency hosted an International Symposium on Transboundary Water Management which took place on Thursday 12th and Friday 13th September 2024 in the Everglades Hotel, Derry~Londonderry.

This prestigious gathering brought together leading experts, policymakers, researchers, practitioners and stakeholders from around the globe to address one of the most pressing environmental and geopolitical challenges of our time: the management of transboundary water resources. As we navigate an era marked by increasing biodiversity loss, water scarcity, climate change and population growth, the need for cooperative, sustainable and equitable water management across borders has never been more critical.

Transboundary waterbodies, which include Foyle and Carlingford as well as 286 river basins and numerous aquifers spanning international borders worldwide, are vital sources of freshwater for millions of people. However, their shared nature often leads to complex governance issues, as different countries may have conflicting interests, policies and levels of dependence on these waters. Effective management of these resources is essential not only for ensuring water security but also for fostering environmental sustainability and maintaining ecosystem services.

This Symposium provided a unique platform for dialogue and collaboration, featuring a diverse array of presentations and panel discussions. The agenda covered a broad spectrum of topics, from innovative management frameworks and legal instruments to the role of technology in enhancing water and species monitoring and data sharing. The Symposium delved into case studies that highlighted both successful cooperative initiatives and persistent challenges, offering valuable lessons and insights.

Moreover, the Symposium served as a collaborative platform for new ideas, knowledge sharing, networking and partnership building. By bringing together varied perspectives and expertise, the Symposium fostered synergies that can lead to more resilient and adaptive transboundary water management strategies. Participants also engaged actively, shared their experiences and explored opportunities for cross-border cooperation that can drive progress towards improved water quality, better-protected and managed ecosystems and mitigating conflicts through collaborative governance.

The Symposium embraced the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility. Loughs Agency believes that together, we can pave the way towards a future where transboundary waters are managed not as sources of division, but as catalysts for shared ecosystem services and sustainable development.

Bottom photo on Page 7

Back row left to right: Richard Hill, Northern Ireland Joint Secretary, North South Ministerial Council; Caitriona Mullan, CrossBorder Cooperation and Governance Specialist; Ciarán Ó Cuinn, Centre Director, MEDRC; Prof. Maureen Hume, Professor of Latin American Politics, University of Glasgow; Prof. Francesco Sindico, Professor in International Environmental Law at the University of Strathclyde Law School; Geraldine Fitzgerald, North South Ministerial Council; Prof. Joao Ferreira, Chief Scientific Officer, Longline Environment Ltd.

Front row left to right: Fiona McCandless, DAERA; Andrew Muir MLA, Northern Ireland Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs; Sharon McMahon, Loughs Agency CEO; David Simpson, DAERA.

Andrew Muir MLA, Northern Ireland Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs

Prof. Francesco Sindico, Professor in International Environmental Law at the University of Strathclyde Law School

3. Session Content

3.1 Summary of Opening Remarks

Deputy Mayor, Darren Guy, welcomed all delegates to Derry~Londonderry and noted that the city, with its rich cultural links to the Foyle, provided an ideal backdrop for the Symposium’s discussions on transboundary aquatic management. Deputy Mayor Guy commended Loughs Agency for bringing together some of the world’s leading experts, researchers and policymakers and acknowledged the need for collaborative approaches to find solutions to manage our shared water resources. “The challenges we face are complex and interconnected, it is only through cooperation, knowledge sharing and mutual support that we can find sustainable solutions”.

Loughs Agency CEO Sharon McMahon opened the Symposium by introducing Loughs Agency and stressing the need for collaborative approaches to transboundary aquatic management. Sharon acknowledged the work of Loughs Agency staff and thanked the Sponsor Departments and the NSMC and their Joint Secretaries for their steadfast commitment to Loughs Agency’s shared environmental goals. “Let this Symposium spark the beginning of something even bigger—a platform for ongoing discussions, cooperation and action. Together, we can transcend borders and divisions, protecting not only our water systems but the future of our planet.”

Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Mr Andrew Muir MLA, opened by congratulating Loughs Agency on 25 years of successful delivery and noted the importance of transboundary water management in finding collaborative solutions to address urgent issues such as climate change, water pollution and biodiversity loss. Minister Muir reflected on the history of Loughs Agency and the role the Agency plays in transboundary cooperation. Minister Muir stated that Loughs Agency’s contribution to conserving and protecting aquatic ecology cannot be overstated and highlighted the importance of and need for effective transboundary cooperation, noting that Loughs Agency is well placed to drive forward transboundary environmental protection, conservation and management. Minister Muir noted that partnership, cooperation and collaboration will play a key role in achieving these objectives. “It is important that we continue to build our existing relationships to develop transboundary solutions for climate action, nature recovery and the sustainable management of fisheries and aquaculture”.

3.2 Symposium Session 1: Transboundary Water Governance – Strategy and Best Practice

Moderator: Caitriona Mullan: Cross-Border Cooperation and Governance Specialist Caitriona Mullan is a cross-border cooperation and governance specialist working across the EU. She is a Senior Expert with the European Commission Directorate General for Regional and Urban Policy (structural funds), currently advising on health programming in Central and Eastern Europe. She is an external expert with the Council of Europe’s Centre of Expertise in Multilevel Governance, with recent missions supporting decentralisation processes in Armenia and Finland. Caitriona also advises the Association of European Border Regions (AEBR) on the EU-funded b-Solutions initiative, addressing obstacles to European cohesion and integration across EU internal and European Free

Trade Association borders. She has authored a range of publications with National Economic and Social Council, Centre for Cross-Border Studies (CCBS), International Centre for Local and Regional Development (ICLRD), the European Commission and Association of European Border Regions. She is a Senior Research Associate with the CCBS and the ICLRD and provides strategic advisory support to a number of North South cooperation initiatives, including Loughs Agency and the Astronomical Observatories of Ireland.

This session:

• Explored the relevance and importance of water governance models that are transboundary and designed to take account of natural environmental catchments.

• Discussed the significance of participative governance models as an approach for building trust within and between communities whose role is crucial as custodians of water resources.

• Placed the issue of collaborative and transboundary governance in the context of European and global policy priorities for sustainable development and international cohesion.

• Examined transboundary working models of best practice from the island of Ireland which deliver essential services across our shared water resources.

• Considered the opportunities for transboundary working to provide urgent solutions to our climate crisis and duty of care for shared environmental assets.

3.2.1 PART 1: The Role of Transboundary Collaboration and Participatory Water Governance as Vehicles for Global Sustainability, Stability and Peacemaking.

Transboundary collaboration and participatory water governance play crucial roles in fostering global sustainability, stability and peacemaking, especially given the escalating pressures on water resources due to climate change, population growth, economic demands and political unrest. Water resources that cross political borders, whether rivers, lakes or aquifers, require complex management strategies and cooperation among nations to prevent conflicts, protect ecosystems and ensure equitable access. Here, transboundary collaboration and participatory governance emerge as two complementary approaches that can address these global challenges effectively.

Transboundary water management is fundamentally a matter of diplomacy. Rivers that flow through multiple countries and disputes over water use have historically been a source of tension. Collaborative frameworks, such as international treaties and joint management committees, can reduce the potential for conflict by fostering dialogue, enhancing transparency and establishing shared goals among stakeholders.

Participatory governance involving a broad spectrum of stakeholders—local communities, indigenous populations, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), and the private sector—in decision-making processes can lead to more equitable water policies that reflect local needs and knowledge, fostering social cohesion and support for sustainable practices. For example, in Brazil, participatory river basin committees provide a platform for diverse groups to voice their concerns, which has enhanced equitable water distribution and resource stewardship.

Transboundary collaboration and participatory governance play pivotal roles in advancing global sustainability, stability and peacemaking. Transboundary collaboration facilitates shared responsibility and cooperation among nations, while participatory governance fosters inclusivity and equity within local and regional contexts. Together, they create a robust framework for resilient, just and sustainable water management that can mitigate conflict, foster peace and ensure the long-term health of critical water systems.

3.2.1.1

Cooperation around the Guarani Aquifer System in Latin America

Speaker: Professor Francesco Sindico

Prof. Francesco Sindico is a Professor in International Environmental Law at the University of Strathclyde Law School in Glasgow. He is also the Co-Chair of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Commission on Environmental Law (WCEL) Climate Change Law Specialist Group. Professor Sindico is also the Founder and a Director of the social enterprise Climate Change Litigation Initiative. From a transboundary perspective, Professor Sindico has worked extensively on the management of transboundary aquifers in Latin America (especially on the Guarani Aquifer System), Central America and Southern Africa. He was also Counsel for the Plurinational State of Bolivia before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Dispute over the Status and Use of the Waters of the Silala (Chile v. Bolivia). Professor Sindico is currently leading the submission of the IUCN WCEL to the ICJ Advisory Opinion on the Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change.

Despite the existence of over 450 transboundary aquifers worldwide, only a few international agreements address their governance. Professor Sindico examined the lack of cooperation regarding transboundary groundwater systems and explored the steps needed to improve collaboration. The Guarani Aquifer System in Latin America serves as a case study to illustrate these challenges. Spanning Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, the Guarani is one of the world’s largest transboundary aquifers. In 2003, it became the focus of a $27 million USD initiative funded by the four countries and the World Bank. This project aimed to enhance scientific understanding, coordinate regulations and promote sustainable management. Although an agreement was signed in 2010, it took a decade to come into force, highlighting the complexities of international water law.

Professor Sindico also discussed the Uruguay River, a transboundary waterbody between Uruguay and Argentina, as an example of successful collaboration. In this case, cooperation between the municipalities of Salto (Uruguay) and Concordia (Argentina) persisted even after external funding ceased, demonstrating the potential for locallydriven transboundary water management.

The study underscored key factors in fostering effective cooperation on transboundary groundwater: the critical role of scientific research in informing policy, the necessity of securing long-term funding for collaborative initiatives and the importance of tailoring governance frameworks to the specific characteristics of groundwater systems. Additionally, Professor Sindico emphasised the need to give groundwater a more visible and relatable identity to encourage public and political action. Addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring the sustainable management of transboundary aquifers and overcoming the legal and institutional challenges that hinder cooperation.

3.2.1.2 Colombia River Stories: Improving Socio-environmental Understandings for Building Sustainable Peace

Speaker: Professor Maureen Hume

Professor Maureen Hume is Professor of Latin American Politics and Head of Politics and International Relations at the University of Glasgow. Her research focuses on issues of violence in post-conflict contexts in Latin America. She has worked extensively on issues of gender and violence in Central America, and she spent several years as a development worker in El Salvador. Professor Hume currently works in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of researchers, Colombian social leaders and communities to explore the struggles for socio-environmental rights along the Atrato River in Colombia. The Atrato is one of the world’s top ten biodiversity hotspots and was recognised as a legal

subject by the Colombian Constitutional Court in 2017.

This presentation sought to sow the seeds of a dialogue between bodies of water in Ireland and Colombia, exploring the interconnected relationships between nature, peace and people. As Colombia transitions from one of the world’s longest-running civil conflicts to peace, the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) has recognised nature as a ‘victim’ of conflict. This challenges traditional, human-centric approaches to peacebuilding and justice by acknowledging the inseparability of human and environmental wellbeing. Centering the natural environment in discussions of sustainable peace requires rethinking the role of nature in post-conflict recovery.

The presentation focused on an interdisciplinary research project examining riverine communities along Colombia’s Atrato River, the main artery of the Chocó Department. Chocó, one of the world’s top biodiversity hotspots, is home to Afro-Colombian and Indigenous communities who have historically relied on their environment for sustenance and cultural identity. However, the region has been deeply affected by armed conflict, with illegal gold mining and other illicit economies driving deforestation, pollution and forced displacement. Against this backdrop, local communities have engaged in continuous non-violent resistance to assert their rights to their territories, viewing ‘territory’ not as an extractable resource but as a ‘space for all forms of life.’

A landmark moment in this struggle came in 2016 when the Colombian Constitutional Court issued Ruling T-622, granting the Atrato River legal personhood. The ruling draws on the concept of ‘biocultural rights,’ which recognises the collective rights of communities to steward their lands and waters in accordance with customary laws. This innovative legal framework positions environmental conservation as a fundamental element of peacebuilding, offering important lessons for socio-environmental governance in post-conflict regions. T-622 also raises critical questions relevant to global peacebuilding efforts, particularly in regions emerging from protracted conflict. How can marginalised communities be meaningfully included in post-conflict transitions to ensure their knowledge, abilities and rights shape future governance? How can participatory, community-led initiatives promote more inclusive peacebuilding processes? To what extent can the natural environment itself be considered an agent of peace?

By engaging with these questions in the context of Loughs Agency’s 25th anniversary, this presentation invited us to reimagine the role of nature in fostering sustainable peace, both in Colombia and on the island of Ireland. It encouraged an expanded vision of peace—one that recognises the interdependence of people and the environment and seeks to restore not only human communities but also the ecosystems upon which they depend.

3.2.1.3

The MEDRC Model

Speaker: Ciarán Ó Cuinn

Ciarán Ó Cuinn is Centre Director of Middle East Desalination Research Centre (MEDRC), an international organisation established as part of the Middle East Peace Process and mandated to use transboundary environmental issues such as water, energy and climate change in support of a multilateral peace process.

For a decade he worked on the Irish Peace Process as Ministerial Policy Adviser at Ireland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.

Even in times of conflict, opposing parties often continue to cooperate on water management. However, this technical collaboration doesn’t necessarily translate into a

broader peace process. The presentation posed the question: How can we take these positive norms of water cooperation and transform them into a peace process? In his presentation, Ciarán highlighted the challenges preventing the use of water as a tool for peace and explored the key factors that allowed MEDRC to survive the collapse of the Middle East Peace Process. He also established a replicable model for states to leverage transboundary environmental issues in support of peace processes, drawing on the central concepts of the Irish Peace Process.

Using the Four Frames of Cooperation Framework, this presentation assessed the institutional mechanisms in transboundary water cooperation for their effectiveness in supporting transboundary water cooperation and transboundary water diplomacy toward positive peace processes. The results support the need for institutional mechanisms that govern transboundary water cooperation to promote resilient political as well as technical engagement to support water conflict prevention by advancing constructive transboundary water cooperation. Without advancing water diplomacy through institutional mechanisms that govern transboundary water cooperation, the resilience of the institutional mechanism risks becoming limited by a lack of political will.

3.2.1.4 Transboundary Water Governance to Boost Cross-Border Cooperation

Speaker: Dr Martín Guillermo-Ramirez

Dr Martín Guillermo-Ramirez holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, a Master’s in Humanitarian Medicine and is an expert with more than three decades of experience in international cooperation and relations, with a particular focus on cross-border cooperation. He worked in youth organisations (1989-1995) and then in the Regional Government of Extremadura (Spain) in the areas of cooperation for development, international relations and health and welfare policies (1995-2006). Since 2006, he has been the Secretary General of the Association of European Border Regions (AEBR/ ARFE/AGEG), one of the oldest associations of regions in Europe (founded in 1971). AEBR represents the interests of European border and cross-border regions towards EU institutions, national authorities and other bodies, promotes capacity building, strategic development and public policies to overcome cross-border obstacles; while also fostering relationships with cross-border processes in other continents to exchange experiences and best practices.

Despite ongoing conflicts, opposing parties frequently continue to cooperate on water management. However, such technical collaboration does not automatically translate into broader peace processes. This presentation explored how the positive norms of water cooperation can be transformed into a peacebuilding tool. It examined the challenges that hinder the use of water as a mechanism for conflict resolution and highlighted key factors that enabled MEDRC to persist despite the collapse of the Middle East Peace Process. Drawing on insights from the Irish Peace Process, the presentation proposed a replicable model for leveraging transboundary environmental cooperation to support peace efforts.

Using the Four Frames of Cooperation Framework, this study evaluated institutional mechanisms in transboundary water governance and their effectiveness in fostering both cooperation and diplomacy toward sustainable peace. The analysis underscored the necessity of institutional structures that extend beyond technical collaboration to include resilient political engagement. Institutional mechanisms that govern transboundary water cooperation must actively promote water diplomacy, ensuring that cooperative efforts in water management contribute to broader conflict prevention and resolution.

The case of MEDRC serves as a key example of how institutions can sustain cooperation even in the absence of a formal peace process. Its survival highlights the importance of

designing institutions that can withstand political fluctuations and external pressures. By integrating the principles of the Irish Peace Process, this study offers a structured framework for states to transform environmental cooperation into a tool for long-term peacebuilding.

Ultimately, this presentation argued that transboundary water governance remains vulnerable when it lacks dedicated institutional mechanisms to bridge water cooperation with diplomacy. Without deliberate efforts to embed political resilience within water governance frameworks, cooperation risks stagnating due to shifting political will. To maximise the potential of water as an instrument for peace, institutional structures must be designed to support both technical collaboration and sustained diplomatic engagement.

3.2.1.5 Panel Discussion Synopsis

Panel members:

• Professor Francesco Sindico, University of Strathclyde

• Professor Maureen Hume, University of Glasgow

• Ciarán Ó Cuinn, Director, MEDRC

• Dr Martín Guillermo-Ramirez, Secretary General, Association of European Border Regions

• Moderator: Caitriona Mullan

Reflecting on their respective presentations, the panel members were asked to discuss thematic questions related to participatory engagement, the rights of nature, managing water resources within conflict settings and what Loughs Agency can offer within this space.

Main discussion points:

What kind of citizen science initiatives did the locals engage in and how was this facilitated?

“Initially, our citizen science approach was tailored to reflect the very limited funds available to the group and our ambition to ensure that it was sustainable. We agreed a basic water monitoring approach, using low-tech applications to record pH, dissolved oxygen, turbidity and other environmental parameters on WhatsApp at key local areas on a weekly basis. Data were calibrated and validated in an accredited lab to ensure that it was suitable to be used as evidence within the Colombian legal system. Without this, the data would not have been admissible as evidence. The project is now supported by the World Wide Fund which has greater access to resources for coordinating the work and are able to upscale the citizen science approach. One of the lessons learned was that this type of work is very reliant on people’s time and this type of stewardship can put a lot of pressure on community activists”.

How do you ensure environmental issues remain the focus in a conflict area, where a humanitarian crisis and wars are occurring?

“The Geneva Conventions make this very clear. The way to ensure water and environmental concerns are addressed and considered in a war setting is to have international rules in place, and to have legal systems, such as The Hague, to take action against those who would break these rules”.

Is giving legal rights to rivers the future for environmental bodies seeking to prosecute those who would damage habitats?

“I do not believe this is the only way and should be considered in context – it should be about agency, people and how you want to strategise for the future. The challenge, when you talk about law, is that just having a piece of legislation is not enough – it requires champions, structure and process.”

“If we want to survive, we need to regulate things. Preventative work beyond enforcement is very important.”

What can Loughs Agency and the island of Ireland offer into this international space?

“The Good Friday Agreement and Peace Process has been such a success, reflecting the need for public participation in moving forward. As a model of best practice, it demonstrates the importance of involving people from the outset.”

“It would be useful if Loughs Agency could have a regular seminar / conference gathering of academics and practitioners to jointly communicate best practice around climate change, good governance and other issues.”

“Exchanging stories and perspectives is really important – in the context of climate change, we now have to consider who can make the biggest impact in the shortest time. The timeframes we have been used to are no longer there.”

3.2.2 PART 2: Governance in Practice: Best Practice from the Island of Ireland and Transboundary Cooperation for Safety on our Shared Loughs – Foyle, Carlingford and the Island.

The island of Ireland offers a compelling case study in transboundary cooperation, particularly through its collaborative management of shared waterways like Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough. Effective governance of these waterbodies has required innovative, cooperative approaches that span national and regional borders to address both environmental and safety concerns. This experience provides valuable insights into best practices for transboundary water governance that could be relevant in other shared regions worldwide.

3.2.2.1 Governance in Practice: Best Practice from the Island of Ireland and Transboundary Cooperation for Safety on our Shared Loughs – Foyle, Carlingford and the Island - Irish Lights Perspective.

Speaker: Ronan Boyle

Ronan Boyle is Director of Navigation, Maritime and Consenting at Commissioners of Irish Lights. His remit is to advance the strategic goals set out in Safe SeasConnected Coasts Irish Lights Strategy 2018 - 2023 and beyond. Ronan is a former Lieutenant Commander with the Irish Naval Service, and while ashore he specialised in communications and IT including the introduction of a new maritime surveillance capability for the Navy. He also held a Divisional Management role with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. Ronan holds a BSc (Hons) in Information Technology from Dublin City University and a MSc in Technology Management from University College Cork. In addition, he holds a MA in Leadership, Management and Defence Studies from National University of Ireland Maynooth.

The Commissioners of Irish Lights, alongside Trinity House and the Northern Lighthouse Board, form the General Lighthouse Authorities (GLA). Together, they are responsible

for delivering a modern, reliable and efficient Aids to Navigation (AtoN) service to enhance the safety of mariners navigating Ireland, the UK and surrounding waters. Irish Lights operates an extensive network of 64 lighthouses, 20 beacons, 117 buoys, 23 radar beacons, 100 Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) and 8 helipads. Additionally, several Irish Lights stations provide real-time data on sea conditions, wind and other maritime factors. This infrastructure is supported by headquarters and engineering facilities in Dún Laoghaire and the Irish Lights Vessel Granuaile, an 80-metre Dynamic Positioning I service vessel.

Irish Lights represents a unique model of East-West and North-South governance, reflecting historical legislative frameworks. Originally established under the Dublin Port Act of 1867, its authority extends further back to an Act of the Irish Parliament in 1786. Today, its jurisdiction is defined by the Merchant Shipping Acts of 1894 (Ireland) and 1995 (UK), granting Irish Lights powers over the management and maintenance of lighthouses, buoys and beacons across Ireland and Northern Ireland. Additionally, it holds responsibility for the marking and removal of wrecks under the Merchant Shipping (Salvage and Wreck) Act 1993 (Ireland) and the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 (Northern Ireland).

The presentation outlined the current Irish Lights strategy document, Safe SeasConnected Coasts 2018-2023, structured around five key focus areas: (1) provision of general AtoN around Ireland, (2) supervision and management of third-party navigation services, (3) utilising reserve capacity for commercial maritime services, (4) provision of value-added services to the wider maritime economy, and (5) tourism, heritage and community engagement through the development of maritime heritage assets.

The presentation also highlighted Irish Lights’ role in international maritime governance through its long-standing affiliation with the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA). Since its founding in 1957, IALA has promoted global harmonisation of AtoN and safe, cost-effective vessel movements. Irish Lights actively contributes to all four IALA technical committees: Digital Technologies (DTEC), Aids to Navigation Requirements and Management (ARM), Engineering and Sustainability (ENG) and Vessel Traffic Services (VTS).

Finally, the presentation emphasised Irish Lights’ cross-border initiatives to promote maritime heritage, particularly through the Great Lighthouses of Ireland project. This initiative showcases twelve iconic lighthouses in stunning coastal locations, fostering community engagement, local employment and heritage tourism. Through its operational expertise, strategic vision and international collaboration, Irish Lights continues to play a critical role in ensuring maritime safety while preserving and promoting Ireland’s rich maritime heritage.

3.2.2.2 Irish Coast Guard Transboundary Governance

Speaker: Kevin Whitney

This presentation focused on the Irish Coast Guard’s role as an emergency response service, its operational scope and the complexities of cross-border emergency management. It highlighted the unique challenges faced by an emergency organisation that operates within a single jurisdiction but frequently crosses boundaries to respond to incidents in neighbouring regions. The Irish Coast Guard emphasised the fluid nature of water-related emergencies, which can easily migrate across jurisdictions, necessitating coordinated responses. Addressing these challenges, the presentation outlined the strategies employed by the Irish Coast Guard and its partners to manage transboundary incidents effectively.

Key elements of this approach include strong governance structures, establishing clear agreements on jurisdictional responsibilities, pooling resources and maintaining regular engagement between agencies. It stresses that these measures ensure a wellcoordinated response framework, allowing emergency teams to quickly determine leadership roles and responsibilities when an incident occurs.

The presentation underscored the importance of collaboration and structured governance in transboundary emergency response. By fostering cooperation and shared understanding, the Irish Coast Guard ensures that emergency operations are carried out efficiently, regardless of jurisdictional boundaries.

3.2.2.3 Panel Discussion Synopsis

Panel members:

• Ronan Boyle – Director of Navigation, Maritime and Consenting at Commissioners of Irish Lights

• Kevin Whitney – Head of Operations, Irish Coast Guard

• Moderator: Caitriona Mullan

Main Discussion Points

Brexit has fundamentally changed relationships, however, both organisations have been able to find ways of continuing to work together through bilateral communication.

Maintaining consistent navigation and safety standards across jurisdictions minimises confusion and risk, which is critical in high-traffic or environmentally sensitive areas like shared loughs.

Through coordinated efforts, both organisations achieve greater efficiency and coverage. This cooperation optimises response times in critical incidents, benefiting communities on both sides of the border.

Summary

Irish Lights maintains consistent standards and systems across the entire island, ensuring seamless navigation aids for all mariners. This continuity is critical for safety in shared waters, where jurisdictional boundaries are less relevant to navigation and safety needs.

Joint Search and Rescue Operations cooperation between the Irish Coast Guard and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency is essential for rapid, effective responses in emergencies where people or vessels cross jurisdictional waters.

Their practices illustrate the strategic advantages of cross-border governance and provide a replicable model for other regions managing shared waterways to achieve safety outcomes.

3.3 Symposium Session 2: Collaborative Working for Ecosystem Management

Moderator: Dr Sarah McLean, Head of Science, Loughs Agency Dr Sarah McLean is Head of Science at Loughs Agency. She is responsible for leading all the Agency’s scientific delivery in order to provide robust evidence-bases to

inform environmental management and policy decisions in the Foyle and Carlingford catchments. Sarah joined Loughs Agency in 2011, first as the Senior Aquaculture and Shellfisheries Officer, then as the Senior Scientist and was appointed Head of Science in 2021. Sarah is a graduate of Queen’s University Belfast, where she completed both her undergraduate Honours Degree in Zoology and her PhD in Invasive Species Management in relation to Fisheries. Her research interests are in invasive species, applied fisheries science and aquatic habitat restoration.

This session:

• Outlined how effective management of our aquatic systems requires us to balance multiple, and sometimes conflicting, pressures and objectives from many sectors.

• Reflected on how an ecosystem-based approach contributes to addressing the cumulative impacts of environmental stressors by employing integrated systems management methodologies that recognise ecosystems do not end at jurisdictional boundaries.

• Demonstrated the need for a high degree of collaboration at the transboundary scale to ensure continuity of protection and management across aquatic ecosystems.

• Considered the need for collaboration in managing our aquatic environment in response to the threats of climate change and the biodiversity crisis.

• Explored the importance of Marine Spatial Planning and Integrated Catchment Management for informing how we can sustainably utilise our aquatic ecosystems for anthropogenic purposes.

Effective management of our aquatic systems requires us to balance multiple and sometimes conflicting pressures and objectives from many sectors. We are often faced with addressing the cumulative impacts of numerous stressors simultaneously. The ecosystem-based approach is a mechanism to do this by employing an integrated system management of land, water, flora and fauna which promotes conservation and provides evidence-bases for sustainable anthropogenic use. The ecosystem-based approach recognises that humans are an integral part of the ecosystem.

To truly operate on an ecosystem-based approach, we must recognise that ecosystems do not end at jurisdictional boundaries. The impacts of a management practice (or lack thereof) in one jurisdiction can have implications for the environment in other jurisdictions. This is particularly true in the case of aquatic ecosystems which have a high degree of interconnectivity and also support migratory and highly mobile aquatic species. To effectively conserve and protect our aquatic ecosystems there is a need for a high degree of collaboration at the transboundary scale to ensure continuity of protection and management.

The need for collaboration in managing our aquatic environment is arguably even more pressing when considered through the lens of the twin threats of climate change and the biodiversity crisis. As our environment is changing so too is our understanding of natural processes. There is a need for greater collaboration and continuity of management approaches to ensure that water quality and aquatic species and habitats are adequately protected in this time of crisis. There are opportunities here too for innovation and technology development to help better understand the changes that are occurring. Technology development and innovation also necessitate the need for collaboration and data sharing to ensure a holistic approach to not only investigation but also mitigation approaches. New technology also allows for much closer collaboration and opportunity for faster learning and advancement.

Climate change and other large-scale environmental pressures have forced us to look more at how we utilise our aquatic ecosystems for anthropogenic purposes. This new focus on our aquatic systems has necessitated a greater need for Marine Spatial Planning

and Integrated Catchment Management. The large-scale development of sectors such as offshore renewable energy has created a situation where there is the potential for a need to trade-off between environmental sustainability and sustainable energy. Managing this space requires transboundary collaboration.

On the island of Ireland, effective ecosystem management, particularly of aquatic systems, requires a collaborative, transboundary approach that balances diverse and sometimes conflicting pressures from multiple sectors. The shared ecosystems of Ireland and Northern Ireland support a wide range of economic activities and biodiversity, but they also face considerable threats from climate change, pollution and habitat loss. Collaborative working ensures that both jurisdictions can protect these ecosystems holistically, maintaining ecological continuity across borders and addressing pressing environmental challenges in a coordinated way.

3.3.1 Contested Borders and Resolution in Planning Shared Marine Waters

Speaker: Dr Joseph Kofi Ansong

Dr Joseph Kofi Ansong is a Visiting Scholar at the Department of Geography and Planning, University of Liverpool, and a Senior Consultant at Howell Marine Consulting. His career has focused on critically examining the challenges and opportunities for transboundary marine planning and management, as well as its technical development. His work has brought together scientists, policymakers, regulators and industry to find solutions that deliver a sustainable blue economy, nature-based approaches, ocean multiuse options and effective transboundary marine governance.

Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) has been described as “an idea whose time has come” due to its potential to resolve spatial conflicts and promote sustainable marine resource use. Legislative frameworks such as the EU MSP Directive 2014/89/EU and the UK Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 mandate that neighbouring MSPs be coherent and coordinated to effectively address cross-border issues. However, implementing MSP in transboundary areas presents significant challenges due to differences in administrative structures, fiscal systems and legislative procedures.

This presentation explored the complexities of cross-border MSP, particularly in regions with historically contested borders, where political and jurisdictional tensions hinder the effective realisation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Two case study regions were examined: the maritime boundary between Germany and Poland and the waters surrounding the island of Ireland. Several key challenges were identified in crossborder MSP, including geographical peripheries syndrome, schema overload, lack of transparency and blue justice, diplomatic negotiation processes and differing planning philosophies. These issues create barriers to cooperation and limit the effectiveness of transboundary marine governance.

The presentation concluded by emphasising the need for locally tailored MSP approaches, enhanced transparency in cross-border engagements, adaptive learning mechanisms and adequate resourcing to support effective transboundary marine planning. Strengthening these aspects can improve cooperation and contribute to more integrated and sustainable marine governance across borders.

3.3.2 Global Commitment to Local Implementation. Opportunities for Cross-Border Insight

Speaker: Dr Steve Wilkinson

Dr Steve Wilkinson is Director of Ecosystem Evidence and Advice with the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC). He has over twenty years’ experience in maximising

the value and use of data and other evidence sources, to support efficient decisionmaking regarding natural resource management. Steve provides strategic advice to the JNCC and leads internal governance groups. He specifically oversees and directs JNCC’s UK-funded, non-marine work by maintaining an overview of strategies and priorities across the four UK countries and identifying opportunities for cross-border working.

This presentation outlined how global challenges, including climate change, food security and human health are closely linked to the unsustainable use and exploitation of natural resources. Ecosystem-based approaches recognise the intrinsic connection between humans and the environment, advocating for a shift in resource management to generate benefits for both nature and society. Successfully addressing these complex issues requires high-level collaboration at global and regional levels, providing strategic direction and incentives for local implementation.

The ecosystem approach emphasises the multi-functional benefits that can be achieved through sustainable environmental management. This includes recognising the value of ecosystem services—such as carbon sequestration, flood mitigation and biodiversity preservation—and integrating them into national strategies. While these principles are increasingly embedded in government targets, particularly in response to climate change, effective implementation remains a challenge. Global and regional agreements define cross-border commitments, yet translating these into actionable national strategies requires knowledge-sharing, adaptive learning and clear indicators to track progress.

A key challenge is the finite nature of land, requiring a balance between agricultural production and broader environmental benefits. Avoiding the displacement of production abroad while meeting sustainability commitments necessitates a coordinated, cross-border approach. Collaborative indicators and investment in datadriven projections will help refine strategies, offering insight into what works best.

At the regional level, national policies must be adapted for local implementation, which involves aligning incentives and investments with landowner and community priorities. Industry participation is becoming increasingly important alongside government initiatives. Ensuring multifunctionality—where land use delivers multiple benefits simultaneously—requires robust evidence, cross-border alignment and engagement with stakeholders to test and refine approaches.

Ultimately, while broad commitments exist, their successful implementation depends on local action, ongoing monitoring and shared learning. Greater collaboration across borders, informed by diverse policy approaches and investment in scalable solutions, will enhance sustainable environmental governance and resilience.

3.3.3

Panel Discussion Synopsis

Panel members:

• Prof. Frances Lucy – Atlantic Technical University

• Dr Steve Wilkinson – JNCC

• Dr Kofi Ansong – Cross-border marine spatial planning

• Dr Robert Lennox – Ocean Tracking Network

• Dr Hugh Edwards – DAERA

• Moderator: Dr Sarah McLean

Main discussion points

How do we deal with Marine Spatial Planning in Foyle and Carlingford?

“The two Marine Plans are relatively compatible, but there are opportunities for increased joint working.”

“It is important to look at the system holistically and identify potential risks at an early stage. The ecosystem approach is reflected in both plans and supports the ambitions of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive.”

“Priority actions need to be agreed. Implementation must reflect the risks and priorities especially in relation to climate change and its impact on habitats and species.”

“These are very complex systems, compounded by extraneous actors like invasive species. There is a need to use the ecosystems approach to consider all the drivers together and in combination.

We must move away from the reactive approach and think and use existing legal frameworks, best practice examples from around the world, use science and identify suitable agencies for implementing actions.”

“Early interaction with decision makers and build adaptive approaches to environmental management – data allows us to make better decisions”.

What are the opportunities and challenges associated with transboundary ecosystem management, in particular, tackling issues around invasive species?

“The development and adoption of an All-Ireland Invasive Species Management Plan would create a broad scope of actionable opportunities. We need joined-up thinking to address pathways alongside effective regulations that can be enforced. We need to better engage society to communicate and educate people around invasive species issues. The main challenge continues to be the lack of resources to implement actions.”

Does individual understanding of what is meant by an ecosystem-based approach affect how individual parties apply it?

“The concept is reasonably well defined, but we need to demonstrate how an ecosystem-based approach is about maintaining benefits.”

“New EU legislation means that companies employing more than 200 people must report on a suite of net zero and sustainability parameters. This means that businesses and industry must become more engaged in the ecosystem approach and garner a better understanding of their environmental responsibilities.”

“The challenge with the ecosystem-based approach is that we still do not fully understand how ecosystems work. The concept is difficult to implement at scale as we tend to only work on a species basis.”

Summary

Given that ecosystems are naturally interconnected, maintaining their health and resilience requires a unified management approach. Transboundary collaboration allows for enhanced monitoring, joint data-sharing and application of consistent policies and methodologies in the form of Marine Spatial Plans for promoting sustainable and

balanced use of aquatic ecosystems, allowing both human use and ecosystem health to be prioritised. Through transboundary cooperation between Ireland and Northern Ireland, Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) can maintain the health and resilience of aquatic systems, while addressing challenges from climate change and biodiversity loss. However, there is a need for improving communication between jurisdictions, industry and other stakeholders as well as increasing resources for delivering priority actions.

Ecosystems such as Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough are natural cross-border environments, where ecological processes, species migrations and water flows do not recognise political borders. Effective management, therefore, requires cooperation between Irish and Northern Irish authorities to ensure consistent standards and protections. By collaborating across borders, both jurisdictions can address shared environmental challenges more effectively and avoid “gaps” in management where ecological processes might otherwise be disrupted.

Effective ecosystem management relies on data to understand the health of waterbodies, track biodiversity and monitor pollution levels. By pooling resources and sharing data, both jurisdictions can gain a more complete picture of ecosystem health and make better-informed decisions. To ensure data can be collected as seamlessly as possible, there is a need to better align marine licensing and planning requirements with the scientific data collection objectives being led by research institutions and conservation agencies. This alignment and collaboration would also enable quicker response times to issues such as pollution events or invasive species.

3.4 Symposium Session 3: Collaboration for Innovation - Delivering for Future Generations and the Next 25 Years

Moderator: Louise Cullen

Louise Cullen is BBC News Northern Ireland’s Agriculture and Environment Correspondent. Her role covers everything from conservation, farming and innovation to water quality, research and the Environmental, Social and Governance agenda. Her career started more than 20 years ago with Reuters, following her graduation from Queen’s University Belfast in Law and Accounting. After launching BBC Radio Ulster’s News in the West service for Fermanagh and Tyrone, she became the first district journalist for County Tyrone before returning to Broadcasting House in Belfast in 2013. There, her roles have included forward planning, news reading and being the health reporter during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since becoming the Agriculture and Environment Correspondent, she has immersed herself in a world of climate challenges, opportunities and solutions. Outside work, Louise is a keen reader and puzzler, qualified Zumba instructor, occasional baker and closet poet.

This session:

• Explored innovative ecosystem modelling techniques for tracking the pathways of nutrients and contaminants from wastewater, industrial or agricultural sources to determine their impact on the marine environment.

• Discussed the benefits of transboundary ecological modelling as an evidence-based decision-making tool for legislative compliance and planning.

• Outlined new technologically innovative approaches for collecting real-time data to inform conservation and protection policy for migratory and highly mobile species.

• Explored the use of multidisciplinary remote sensing technology to inform the

management of key threatened and declining species and habitats in transboundary aquatic systems.

• Discussed the need for cohesive, evidence-based approaches to habitat restoration and management.

• Explored opportunities for collaboration and cooperation within civic networks and through cross-border community project programming.

Achieving sustainable cross-border species, habitat and water management on the island of Ireland depends on continuous collaboration, innovation and engagement across sectors and communities. By institutionalising cooperative frameworks, embracing new technologies, actively involving the public and securing long-term commitment, it is possible to build resilient and adaptive partnerships that can deliver for future generations.

3.4.1 Ecological Modelling - Integration of Urban Drainage, River, Coastal and Ecology Models on Cross-Border Catchments. From Soil to Sea - Models for Management of Shared Waterbodies on the Island of Ireland.

Speaker: Professor Joao Ferreira

Professor Joao Ferreira is the Chief Scientific Officer of Longline Environment Ltd., a UK/Ireland aquaculture technology company, and professor at the New University of Lisbon, Portugal. He coordinated the modelling component of 15 EU projects, published 75 Science Citation Index papers and co-edited the book ‘Goods and Services of Marine Bivalves’. He developed the EcoWin and FARM models, used worldwide and coordinated the SMILE, EASE and SWELL carrying capacity projects in transboundary systems on the island of Ireland.

The presentation reviewed the ecosystem modelling framework utilised in the Shared Waters Enhancement and Loughs Legacy (SWELL) Project and its application to Carlingford Lough and Lough Foyle. The SWELL Project builds upon the foundations established by the SMILE (2004-2007) and EASE (2014-2016) projects, ultimately developing a soil-to-sea framework that integrates ecological and social sustainability. This framework, known as the System for Understanding Carrying Capacity, Ecological and Social Sustainability (SUCCESS), has been applied to a variety of lough systems in Northern Ireland, including Belfast Lough and Dundrum Bay, as well as internationally in regions such as China, Hong Kong and Indonesia.

The SUCCESS Framework incorporates four key components: (1) a hydrological model that simulates the loading of nutrients, sediment, bacteria and freshwater into the coastal system (i.e., the lough); (2) a hydrodynamic model for simulating water circulation and conservative parameters like salinity; (3) an individual model for bivalve physiology that simulates production and environmental effects; and (4) a system-scale ecological model used to estimate the carrying capacity of bivalves. Results from the SUCCESS Framework were illustrated through an example showing the nitrogen loading ratios from urban versus diffuse sources for Carlingford Lough (30:70) and Lough Foyle (9:90), based on outputs from the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) hydrological model for catchment loading.

The model’s findings highlighted the implications of nutrient control in these ecosystems, particularly emphasising the importance of top-down control by filter-feeding shellfish in managing chlorophyll concentrations and limiting eutrophication. While land-based nutrient reduction (bottom-up control) is a potential strategy, it is expensive and socially complex. The SUCCESS Framework facilitates a cost-benefit analysis of reducing chlorophyll concentrations using both approaches. In Lough Foyle, the value of shellfish regulatory ecosystem services is estimated at approximately €10 million. However,

implementing land-based nutrient reduction through bottom-up control not only lowers chlorophyll concentrations but also reduces shellfish harvests, resulting in social and economic implications. The coupling of various drivers, pressures and states within the model enables an in-depth analysis of how changes in land use, agricultural practices and wastewater treatment can impact these systems.

In conclusion, the SUCCESS Framework provides a comprehensive tool for understanding the complex relationships between ecological processes, human activities and the sustainability of coastal systems. Its application to Carlingford Lough and Lough Foyle demonstrates its capacity to inform decision-making regarding nutrient management and ecosystem services, offering valuable insights for managing eutrophication and balancing environmental, social and economic factors.

3.4.2 Transboundary and International Collaboration on Marine Species Acoustic Tracking Across Multijurisdictional Marine Ecosystems.

Speaker: Dr Robert Lennox

Dr Robert Lennox is the Scientific Director of the Ocean Tracking Network (OTN), headquartered at Dalhousie University. Robert’s work has largely focused on fundamental and applied ecological questions with an objective of informing animal conservation. Robert has published more than 120 peer-reviewed papers and his passions are mostly aligned with understanding where, when and why animals move and how this behaviour is changing in a world full of anthropogenic stressors. At OTN, Robert aims to enhance the value of animal tracking data in policy and the conservation of aquatic habitats and species.

The presentation outlined how an understanding of species movement is crucial for comprehending how animals interact, survive and thrive in an evolving environment. Historically, technological limitations constrained our ability to monitor the movement of aquatic life. However, recent advancements in data collection technology, combined with the collaborative efforts of tracking networks globally, have revolutionised our understanding of animal movement. These innovations, alongside increased international collaboration, have enabled the rapid and cost-effective generation of large, long-term datasets on animal movements.

As a result, our knowledge of animal movements across time and space has expanded significantly, revealing the transboundary nature of aquatic species and the interconnectedness of watercourses. This highlights the critical need for crossborder cooperation in both understanding and protecting these species. Tracking has traditionally focused on key, commercially important or endangered species, but this approach leaves gaps in knowledge for many other species. A shift towards an ecosystem-based approach to tracking would not only fill these gaps but also reveal the complex interactions between species, offering a more comprehensive understanding of aquatic ecosystems.

By adopting a broader approach to tracking, we can better understand the movements of a wider range of species, including those that may not have been prioritised in traditional research. This ecosystem approach will enhance our ability to study species interactions and their roles within the broader ecosystem, leading to more effective conservation strategies and management practices. The increasing availability of tracking data, combined with international collaboration, provides a unique opportunity to improve our understanding of aquatic life on a global scale and implement measures that support the long-term health of these interconnected systems.

3.4.3 Panel Discussion Synopsis

Panel members:

• Prof. Joao Ferreira – University of Lisbon

• Mark Horton – The Rivers Trust

• Prof. Ken Whelan – Atlantic Salmon Trust

• Dr Robert Lennox – Ocean Tracking Network

• Moderator: Louise Cullen

Main discussion points

Bioregions

“We all need to start thinking in terms of ‘bioregions’ in respect of migratory fish and the levels of connectivity between countries and their rivers and at the migratory paths across seas and oceans. How do we manage these as regions rather than artificially dividing them up between freshwater and saltwater worlds? Many are now convinced that transboundary work is the only way we can move forward, allowing us to plan for the imminent threats generated by climate change.”

Efficacy of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

“MPAs are rarely large enough to be effective in what we want them to accomplish. They are extremely important management tools, but they need to be larger and form a network that promotes better connectivity. They should also be able to support multiple life history stages (spawning, nursery and feeding grounds). In doing so, they would be more effective for increasing species numbers.”

Riparian Works

“There is some degree of small-scale agri-environmental supported works across the island of Ireland, but we should consider moving away from this short-term capital budget model towards a result-based approach that would better recognise the value of farmer interventions in improving water quality.”

Stock Assessment and Modelling

“We need to better understand how OTN data can fit into stock assessment models – this is the next frontier for a lot of our tracking data.”

Summary

Ecological modelling is invaluable in transboundary aquatic ecosystems, especially for evidence-based decision-making that supports long-term environmental planning. Data provided by Loughs Agency, OTN, NGOs such as The Rivers Trust and others can support models that can help enable policymakers to anticipate the impacts of environmental changes, policy interventions and development plans on aquatic ecosystems. This is crucial for responding to challenges such as climate change, nutrient loading and hydrological changes, which do not respect political borders.

The availability of real-time environmental data is transforming conservation efforts, providing immediate insights into the behaviour and health of migratory and highly mobile species. Emerging technologies for data collection offer new opportunities to monitor ecosystems effectively, but we must consider the scale at which we can apply this data

to effectively utilise management tools such as MPAs. Greater thought needs to be given to the size and degree of connectivity of MPAs and perhaps the development of new bioregions may go some way to addressing the shortcomings of this designation approach.

Emerging technologies will help facilitate the development of comprehensive databases, enabling more precise conservation policies. For instance, real-time monitoring of species migration will directly inform regulatory frameworks such as fishing restrictions, seasonal habitat protections or water quality standards.

Prof. Maureen Hume, Professor of Latin American Politics, University of Glasgow

4. Breakout Sessions

These three sessions were designed to stimulate discussions and encourage the exchange of perspectives among participants. The aim was that the breakout groups would encourage additional conversation around the themes of the Symposium and capture a wider breadth of opinion than the main sessions.

Symposium participants were asked to register for their preferred session at the time of booking or as part of their RSVP.

Each session was supported by a facilitator and note taker.

• Facilitators were experienced.

• Had a good understanding of subject area.

• Feedback session was chaired to maintain continuity.

• Key findings were condensed to help with the ‘closing remarks’.

• Mural Boards were used to record responses.

To help populate the Mural Board structure, each breakout session had four headline discussion points (see below). A number of question prompts were also included to help support and maintain the audience discussion / interaction.

4.1 Breakout Group 1: Cross-Border Transboundary and Collaborative Water Governance

4.1.1 Challenges

• What do you understand to be the main challenges in achieving effective crossborder water governance?

• How do differences in political systems and legal frameworks between countries impact collaborative water governance?

• What actions are required to mitigate these challenges?

The group summarised the challenges to transboundary and collaborative water governance as a lack of resources, the border issue, lack of trust between parties leading to poor data sharing, poor transparency. Issues with different metrics being used in each country were also discussed. The group discussed concern around the potential for regulatory divergence post-Brexit and the impact of current and future administrative borders. The group felt that the review of environmental governance in Northern Ireland had not been followed through and discussed the need for an all-island approach to environmental management as a whole. The group discussed how poor communication can lead to further challenges and blurred roles when it comes to who is responsible / competent in transboundary areas. The group also felt that harmonisation of river basin management planning between Northern Ireland / Ireland appears to be poor. The group queried whether obligations under the United Nations Economic Commissions for Europe (UNECE) Water Convention are being met by UK and Ireland. The group discussed the perceived increase in “red tape” post-Brexit, using the example of challenges for research vessel use in transboundary waters to illustrate the point.

4.1.2 Success Stories and Best Practices

• Can you share any successful examples of cross-border water management?

• What best practices in transboundary water governance have been particularly effective?

The group recognised the success and importance of historical international agreements such as OSPAR and NASCO. The group also felt it was important to acknowledge that Loughs Agency and their predecessor organisation Foyle Fisheries Commission are a good example of best practice in transboundary resource management and stakeholder engagement on a cross-border basis. The community engagement and citizen science being delivered through environmental NGOs such as The Rivers Trust, Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and others were highlighted as best practice examples. Initiatives such as the North South Shared Aquatic Resource (NS SHARE) Project, Integrated Aquatic Resources Management Between Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland (IBIS) Research Project, SWELL, Source to Tap, CatchmentCARE projects were all listed as examples of successful cross-border water quality improvement projects. The group also discussed the importance of the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) border regional operational committee in allowing knowledge transfer on water management issues. An independent environment agency was flagged as an example of best practice.

4.1.3 Stakeholder Engagement

• How could we better involve multiple stakeholders (governments, NGOs, local communities) across borders in water governance?

• From your experience, what strategies have proven effective in achieving stakeholder buy-in and cooperation across borders?

The group felt there was a need to involve stakeholders more in setting the environmental agenda and responses to water quality issues. The group emphasised the importance of having strong ambassadors for water quality and co-design elements to strategy development. The cost to private individuals of taking part in consultations and forums was raised, and an example given of consultations in China where attendees are paid to contribute to the sessions maximising quantity and quality of consultation input. The group felt that the “how, why and who” of consultations needs to be addressed and public consultations by government should not have predetermined outcomes as many appear to have. The group discussed the issue that consultations are often perceived as too complex, whether by design or otherwise and they need to be simplified. There was discussion on the need for engagement to be meaningful and not just box-ticking or lip service. The group thought it likely that limited responses are made to many major consultations as a result of how complex they can be, and it tends to be serial campaigners only who can respond effectively. The group thought that this issue could be alleviated by improvements in accessibility.

4.1.4

Future Directions

• What emerging trends do you see in cross-border water governance?

• How can technology (e.g., remote sensing, data analytics) be better utilised in crossborder water management?

The group thought that there might be a need to have a discussion on water charges in Northern Ireland. The group also felt that there is a need for large-scale investment in sewage treatment works in Northern Ireland. There was discussion on the need for meaningful data to use as evidence-bases. The group thought there should be engagement with educators to ensure the next generation of scientists and regulators is well informed. There was discussion on the groundswell of interest in the impacts of

water quality on the environment and the need to capitalise on this now. The group felt that the awareness of these issues needs to be pushed at all levels to create a cascading impact throughout society. The group thought there is a need for more events, like this Symposium, to promote this agenda and encourage transboundary dialogue to happen.

Challenges

What do you understand to be the main challenges in achieving effective cross-border water governance? How do differences in political systems and legal frameworks between countries impact collaborative water governance? What actions are required to mitigate these challenges?

Having stakeholders involved from the beginning Border issues

Review in environmental governance in NI – All-island approach

Lack of data –transparency issues — interstate relationships are important

for

Success Stories and Best Practices

Can you share any successful examples of crossborder water management? What best practices in transboundary water governance have been particularly effective?

Cross-border Transboundary and Collaborative Water Governance

Stakeholder Engagement

How could we better involve multiple stakeholders (governments, NGOs, local communities) across borders in water governance? From your experience, what strategies have proven effective in achieving stakeholder buy-in and cooperation across borders?

What emerging trends do you see in cross-border water governance? How can technology (e.g., remote sensing, data analytics) be better utilised in crossborder water management?

The Rivers Trust

The Rivers Trust

SWELL

Osprey

4.2 Breakout Group 2: Collaborative Working for Ecosystem Management

4.2.1

Ecosystem Management Approaches

• What key principles should guide cross-border marine and freshwater ecosystem management strategies?

The breakout group discussed the need for identification and implementation of codes of practice for all disciplines which would allow for standardised approaches leading to more effective data comparison and interrogation. The group also felt that standardised approaches would aid in communication of results and overall transparency in management decisions. The group discussed the need for shared guidelines for deliverables such as citizen science and stakeholder engagement, to ensure consistency of messaging and reduce overlap between organisations. The group thought that guidelines of this nature should clearly set out combined aims and objectives so that sectoral expectations can be aligned. In order to effectively achieve this, the group believed that an appropriate participatory model should be embedded within any transboundary ecosystem management plan to ensure all relevant organisations are equitably represented.

The group also discussed the need for ecosystem management approaches to be evidenced with strong baselines to ensure that management decisions are well informed in the context of the specific ecosystem in question.

4.2.2 Collaborative Frameworks and Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• What frameworks or models have you found effective for cross-border collaborative ecosystem management?

• How do you ensure equitable participation and representation of all stakeholders in these frameworks?

• How do you integrate scientific, traditional and local knowledge in cross-border ecosystem management?

When considering this question, the group discussed the need to strategically learn from the past, taking forward what works and modifying or rejecting the methodologies that do not work. The group discussed the need to be transparent about how decisions on methodologies are arrived at. The group also discussed the possibility of learning about cross-border management from other fields / disciplines / sectors and the potential to integrate additional learning into our mechanisms.

The group discussed the need for focused approaches which are appropriately resourced to deliver long-term outcomes. The group thought that, in many instances these focused approaches may need to be driven by co-designed regulation. The group thought that an approach which incorporated co-designed regulation from the outset would be preferable to trying to adapt or utilise regulations in a manner which they were not appropriately designed for. Effective co-design of regulation requires the identification of responsible bodies and intergovernmental agreements capable of turning overarching legislation into coordinated, tangible action on the ground. The group acknowledged that on the whole this would be a considerable departure from the status quo which would require senior support and resources. The group also acknowledged that this approach would require effective use of data from multiple disciplines including social and cultural data.

4.2.3 Monitoring and Evaluation

• What indicators do you use to monitor the health of cross-border ecosystems?

• Are existing protocols compatible across borders?

• How do you evaluate the success of collaborative ecosystem management efforts?

The group’s discussion on data evolved into a discussion around effective monitoring and evaluation. The group discussed the need to effectively archive and use existing datasets. The group thought that there was a lot of data in the grey literature in particular, which is not being effectively used or communicated. The group thought that understanding the data we already have would help prioritise resources and actions as well as highlighting knowledge gaps. The group noted that there is likely a need for intercalibration of methodologies used by different organisations to enable comparison of results. The group was very clear that prioritisation of issues must be transparent and determined by environmental need rather than anthropogenic drivers. The group discussed the need to ensure that our assumed environmental indicators are real and transferable and that our data resolution is at appropriate scales to meaningfully inform policy and management. The group stressed the need for long-term monitoring of the success and/or failures of approaches and that doing this effectively required clear understanding of what success should look like at the outset of the project.

4.2.4 Policy and Regulation

• How do existing policies support or hinder cross-border collaborative ecosystem management?

• What policy changes or innovations would enhance collaborative efforts in crossborder ecosystem management?

The group discussed some of the risks posed by environmental legislation in the context of transboundary aquatic management. They gave various examples of inconsistencies in legislation between jurisdictions which have led to contradictions in approaches for transboundary aquatic systems. The group discussed the possibility for transboundary areas to become grey areas or be subject to loopholes where legislative remit is not clear and potential gaps or overlaps exists. The group also discussed how in some instances the rigidity of legislation can lead to situations where action on the ground cannot be as dynamic as required. This issue is particularly pertinent in light of rapid environmental loss as a result of climate change. The group considered the possibility that a lack of clarity around legislative and governance frameworks in transboundary aquatic systems may lead to the spread of misinformation and distrust amongst stakeholders.

The group discussed the need for integration of policies across sectors and for strong transboundary mechanisms to be in place. The group also noted that there is a need to ensure that the transboundary mechanisms that already exist are effectively used. The group recognised the need for a holistic approach, and for a formal mechanism to identify risks and their owners.

The group acknowledged that successful models for transboundary aquatic management do exist and that there is a need to learn from these models and utilise new technologies to consolidate learning from across the world.

What key principles should guide cross-border marine and freshwater ecosystem management strategies?

Common strategies and consistency of approach

Identification within codes of practice

Ecosystem Management Approaches Monitoring and Evaluation

Shared expectations between sectors

Strong baseline data and understanding the context of the ecosystem data

Appropriate participatory model

What frameworks or models have you found effective for cross-border collaborative ecosystem management? How do you ensure equitable participation and representation of all stakeholders in these frameworks? How do you integrate scientific, traditional, and local knowledge in cross-border ecosystem management?

Learning from the past, taking forward the things that work and letting go of the things that don’t

Long-term outcomes and focused approaches

More senior support

Collaborative Working for Ecosystem Management

What indicators do you use to monitor the health of cross-border ecosystems? Are existing protocols compatible across borders? How do you evaluate the success of collaborative ecosystem management efforts?

Prioritisation of resourcing

Responsibility of long-term

Use of AI Transparency in process

Effective communication across all demographics

Collaborative Frameworks and Interdisciplinary Collaboration Policy and Regulation

Appropriate utilisation of data frameworks

Look for examples within other disciplines

Effective communication across all demographics

Identification of responsible bodies

Need for frameworks for co-design for new regulations

Need for intergovernmental agreements and approaches to ensure implementation of overarching legislation

Effective use of social and cultural data

Continuity of approach

How do existing policies support or hinder crossborder collaborative ecosystem management? What policy changes or innovations would enhance collaborative efforts in cross-border ecosystem management?

Inconsistencies of penalties in terms of breaching legislation

Legislation is not dynamic

Contradictions in policy

Risks created by differences in legislative frameworks leading to potential creation of grey areas

Integration of policies Transparency in interrogating the data

Understanding

Formal mechanisms for identifying risks

Existing mechanisms need to be used effectively

Combat disinformation through communication

Existing mechanisms need to be used effectively

Recognising that there are good models

Learn from other successful models

4.3 Breakout Group 3: Collaboration for Innovation - Delivering for Future Generations and the Next 25 Years

4.3.1 Planning for the Future

• How can we ensure that our current efforts in cross-border collaboration are sustainable and beneficial for future generations?

Fáilte Ireland opened the conversation by discussing current plans focused on creating a ‘place destination’. Trying to turn places into a destination location. There was a discussion on the focus around border regions, e.g. Carlingford.

This led to a conversation highlighting the benefits of government, charity and tourism bodies working together across boundaries to combine efforts and present a united front.

The group then discussed the need for long-term investment. The group felt that shortterm projects funded externally do not offer the same opportunities for continual growth as long-term sustained funding. Sustainable, long-term goals are more achievable through continued funding, rather than through short-term projects.

Fáilte Ireland highlighted the need for a change in funding strategies. Currently, funding is advertised with strict criteria that projects must meet in order to be successful. This forces projects to be adapted to fit certain criteria. They recommended a reversal in advertising strategy whereby a detailed project is proposed and then funding is supplied to the exact project. The current funding strategy often results in sub-par project delivery and failure to achieve long-term strategies.

Several members agreed that projects and research must be communicated clearly to stakeholders and the public to ensure maximum community buy-in. This type of exercise leads people to take stewardship of their environment, town or community, depending on the project’s goal.

4.3.2 Innovative Approaches

• What innovative approaches could be adopted or considered for cross-border water management?

• How can new technologies and methodologies be integrated into traditional crossborder water management practices?

Loughs Agency opened the discussion with an example of how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used in the organisation’s daily operations. An example was given of the use of AI in Loughs Agency’s fish counter programme for validating counter figures. This prompted a wider discussion regarding the potential use of new technology like AI to improve outcomes in a shorter timeframe. There was also discussion about individuals’ and organisations’ apprehension in embracing tools like AI due to the lack of understanding. It was agreed throughout the room that tools like these are and will be increasingly useful in the future and simple further education is needed to build confidence.

Fáilte Ireland raised the point that an organisation can have the best approach to a project however, data and information sharing is absolutely vital. Significant time and investment may go into new and innovative projects, often with positive outcomes. However, if the

lessons from these projects were shared across organisations and borders, the overall impact could be far greater.

As a result, a suggestion was made that a standardised approach or hub should be created to facilitate easier sharing of information and learnings. This should not just be within Northern Ireland or Ireland but should facilitate information sharing across the border also.

4.3.3 Engagement and Education

• How can we better engage people in cross-border water governance, protection and conservation?

• What educational programmes or initiatives could be developed to raise awareness and involvement among future generations?

The group highlighted the potential that volunteer programmes offer in maximising resources. An example was provided of Loughs Agency’s ‘StreamKeepers’ initiative. This programme trained individuals in key environmental monitoring programmes. Initiatives like this enable a network of volunteers to make a significant contribution to a project’s success and offer a broader reach that would not be available to a project alone.

It was highlighted that education and interaction between an organisation and stakeholders is vital in ensuring buy-in from locals. If this is achieved it builds relationships with locals and can enable collection of better information of the local area. This led to a discussion about cross-border education opportunities. An example was provided of Inland Fisheries Ireland assisting Loughs Agency with an education programme along the River Finn. This prompted representatives from other organisations in the room to discuss the potential collaborations that could be explored following the same template.

Finally, there was agreement that effectively showcasing the outcomes of a project or organisation’s work is vital for demonstrating impact to stakeholders and local communities. Showcasing the work completed often leads to significant buy-in from locals. An example was provided by Loughs Agency of the CatchmentCARE Project. After the project’s completion and subsequent showcasing, many local residents expressed interest in participating in similar initiatives.

4.3.4 Long-term Collaboration

• How can we ensure long-term commitment and collaboration among the Symposium stakeholders in promoting joint cross-border projects?

• How could we build a resilient network and partnership that endures over time?

The Subgroup session had ended and there was no time to discuss the final point.

Planning for the Future

How can we ensure that our current efforts in crossborder collaboration are sustainable and beneficial for future generations?

Cross-border agendas

Cooperation, development, collaboration, partnership

Developing place, cross-border interest, promotion, shared objective

Inclusion of all waterways, ecology, people, environment

Collaboration at Stormont, cross-departmental

Communicating research to people

Explaining concepts > health and others, not just environmental

People & place working together > stewardship involving local stakeholders

Funding, investment in long-term

Legacy and buy-in at appropriate level, continuity

No long-term strategy

Convergence of strategies at grassroots levels

Innovative Approaches

What innovative approaches could be adopted or considered for cross-border water management?

How can new technologies and methodologies be integrated into traditional cross-border water management practices?

Cloud services, AI, automation and centralisation, real-time sharing, anticipate and track

Cost?

Still requires human validation > a useful tool

Data across different sectors and borders

How it’s communicated, visualisation

Standardisation

Collaboration

Use of citizen science data

Collaboration for Innovation – Delivering for Future Generations and the Next 25 Years

Engagement and Education

How can we better engage people in cross-border water governance, protection, and conservation? What educational programmes or initiatives could be developed to raise awareness and involvement among future generations?

VR Experience, technology

Angling clubs, ownership, buy-in, momentum and involvement

e.g., StreamKeepers

Volunteer programmes?

Save money & time

Show what good work has been done

Build trust and relationships with where they live > better informed decisions

Local knowledge e.g., flooding

Stakeholder engagement

Learning from mistakes

Culture and heritage

Cross-border education, IR

Skills gap?

Can’t meet needs for future

Apprenticeship scheme > pathway to employment

Long-term Collaboration

How can we ensure long-term commitment and collaboration among the symposium stakeholders in promoting joint cross-border projects? How could we build a resilient network and partnership that endures over time?

Cross-border environmental networks

5. Next Steps

Delivering the 2024 International Symposium on Transboundary and Collaborative Water Governance has provided Loughs Agency with a unique opportunity to strengthen our mission and enhance our impact on the conservation and protection of the water resources, habitats and species under our legislative remit. As an organisation devoted to the protection and sustainable use of the shared water resources of Foyle and Carlingford, we now stand to benefit considerably from hosting a Symposium that has drawn together international experts, government representatives and industry stakeholders. The event has enabled us to foster and strengthen cross-border relationships, establish the Agency as a proactive stakeholder in transboundary governance, become familiar with new knowledge and technologies, have a better understanding of policy and enhance the skills and knowledge of our staff. These benefits are essential to addressing the increasingly complex and interconnected water challenges facing the Agency and its partners.

A key benefit of hosting the Symposium has been the enhancement of cross-border cooperation. By bringing together regional and international stakeholders, we have created a forum for meaningful collaboration on transboundary water issues, establishing a more cohesive and integrated approach to managing shared water resources. Collaborative discussions among participants have addressed critical issues such as water quality, resource allocation, the value of data, the importance of scientific rigour and environmental sustainability. Stronger partnerships have been forged at the Symposium which have the potential to result in a more unified response to these challenges, reducing the likelihood of disputes and promoting greater harmony in water governance efforts.

Hosting the Symposium has helped position Loughs Agency as a key player in transboundary water governance on the island of Ireland, raising our profile both regionally and internationally. This elevated status has the potential to attract future collaboration opportunities, secure additional funding and encourage partnerships that strengthen the Agency’s ability to address its goals. This is especially relevant as the field of water conservation management evolves, integrating technologies such as AI, realtime environmental monitoring and advanced data analytics will be essential for keeping pace with changing environmental conditions and regulatory demands.

The event has provided an invaluable platform for Loughs Agency’s staff to engage with experts and stakeholders, gaining insights into best practices and emerging trends. This exposure will help build our internal capacity, equipping staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to address new challenges in transboundary water governance.

To maximise the benefits of the Symposium, Loughs Agency has given consideration to a series of strategic and operational ‘next steps’ aligned with key topics discussed. For transboundary water governance, a strategic focus will be on developing collaborative species conservation frameworks, establishing joint networks and creating protocols for mutual data and resource sharing. Establishing a cross-border governance network, where partners regularly communicate and collaborate, will reinforce shared responsibilities and strengthen relationships between the neighbouring jurisdictions of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Operationally, we have documented the Symposium findings and insights in these proceedings. This will serve as a resource for participants and partners, supporting the ongoing implementation of effective water governance practices.

In addressing the theme of collaborative working for ecosystem management, the Agency’s strategic priorities will include delivery of joint species telemetry actions, developing a data-sharing platform and securing long-term funding for collaborative telemetry projects. Establishing shared objectives, such as biodiversity preservation, pollution reduction and habitat restoration, would align the efforts of all involved parties toward common environmental goals. Strategically, Loughs Agency could play a leading role in seeking funding for these collaborative ecosystem initiatives, ensuring that resources are available for sustainable, long-term management. For the theme of collaboration for innovation, with a focus on delivering for future generations, the Agency will consider developing a forward-looking innovation roadmap. This roadmap would identify critical technological and methodological advancements necessary for sustainable water, species and habitat management over the next 25 years, highlighting innovations in areas such as species monitoring, climate resilience and resource optimisation. Involving younger generations is also essential, as they will be the future leaders and decision-makers in water management. Loughs Agency will continue to develop and deliver youth-focused workshops, helping to cultivate future talent and ensure sustained interest in water conservation and governance.

By focusing on strategic and operational next steps in governance, ecosystem management and innovation, the Agency hopes to ensure that the Symposium’s impact extends beyond the event itself, providing lasting benefits for the Agency, its partners and the communities it serves. The Symposium has thus become a catalyst for strengthening partnerships, advancing sustainable practices and securing a resilient future for shared water resources, firmly aligning with Loughs Agency’s mission to sustainably manage, promote and develop the fisheries and resources of the Foyle and Carlingford areas.

Top photo on Page 37

Left to right: Andrew Muir MLA, Northern Ireland Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs; Jack Porter, Education Officer, Loughs Agency; Louise Cullen, Agriculture and Environment Correspondent, BBC NI.

Bottom photo on Page 37 Delegates networking during the Symposium.