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Project title

Water resource governance and management transition: An actor-network analysis of stakeholders in the Republic of Ireland.

Primary Funding Agency

Irish Research Council

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

Lead Organisation

Dundalk Institute of Technology

Lead Applicant

Not listed

Project Abstract

Restructuring to facilitate an integrated national approach to managing Ireland�s water resources in alignment with local and international legislation has become critical for climate change adaptation and resource sustainability. This restructuring has resulted in the proliferation of institutions and agencies associated with water management and governance. Although these actors aim to collaborate toward achieving good ecological health for water resources in Ireland, the prevalence of communication and engagement problems, duplications of managerial roles and responsibilities, and the absence of a common framework for stakeholder engagement have been hampering their efforts. The overarching aim of this research is to promote the transition towards a sustainable water future for Ireland through integrated stakeholder engagement practices. It examines the relationship between identified stakeholders in the water sector and identifies how their organisational structure, resource allocation, interactions, trade-offs and conflicts affects their ability to deliver on their objectives. Through an actor-network analysis, the research will result in the development of a framework that can be adopted as a novel approach to stakeholder engagement in water governance and management in Ireland. The findings and suggestions from this research will inform national policy design, adaptation, and implementation actions. It will also contribute to the growing scientific interest, public debate and understanding of stakeholder dynamics and relevance to water resource governance and management practices.

Grant Approved

�105,604.00

Research Hub

Climate Change

Research Theme

2. Ireland's Future Climate, its Impacts, and Adaptation Options

Start Date

01/09/2023

Initial Projected Completion Date

31/08/2023