Ireland has been elected to the Council of the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), a significant step for the country in shaping the future of maritime safety and navigation standards worldwide. The election took place during IALA’s inaugural General Assembly in Singapore on February 20, 2025.
As a Council member, Ireland will have a key role in advancing global standards for marine aids to navigation (AtoN), focusing on areas such as digitalization, climate adaptation, and the harmonization of safety measures. The country’s representation on the Council will be led by Yvonne Shields O’Connor, CEO of Irish Lights, the national maritime safety body.
Ireland’s election follows its ratification of the IALA Convention in May 2023, signaling its commitment to global cooperation on maritime safety. The country’s expertise in navigation and environmental protection will be integral in shaping IALA’s future initiatives, particularly in adapting to climate change and ensuring the resilience of AtoN systems.
Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien, emphasized that this development highlights Ireland’s leadership in maritime safety, and its continued contribution to IALA’s mission will be pivotal in navigating the challenges of technological advancements and environmental sustainability.
Yvonne Shields O’Connor echoed these sentiments, stating that Ireland’s role on the IALA Council reinforces its long-standing commitment to international cooperation and its dedication to safe, sustainable maritime navigation.
Through its new position, Ireland aims to collaborate closely with global maritime partners, influencing key strategic areas such as global maritime communications and the implementation of digital navigation services.
Source: Irish Government Press Release
Picture of the The Irish Delegation to IALA by gov.ie with IALA Secretary General and Council President: (L-R) Ronan Boyle, Director of Navigation, Maritime and Consenting, Irish Lights: Yvonne Shields O’Connor, CEO, Irish Lights; Marcos Almeida, IALA President; Francis Zachariae, IALA General Secretary; Eamonn Kelly, Assistant Secretary General, Maritime Policy, Department of Transport; William Priestley, Principal Officer, Maritime Transport Division, Department of Transport.
