Ireland is set to become one of the world's leading players in ocean research
with the opening of a €30 million marine centre.
More than 140 staff will be employed at the National Marine Resource Centre in Galway, monitoring a section of ocean 10 times the size of the island.
Planners have given the Irish Marine Institute the go-ahead for the centre, which could also see developments towards harvesting wave energy to create electricity.
Dr Peter Heffernan, chief executive of the new centre, said: "We will undertake a wide range of services from environmental monitoring to fish health and fish stock assessment. In addition we will be operating two research vessels out of Galway harbour."
He added that the Oranmore-based centre, which should be fully operational by 2004, would also fund research by other groups.
The plans got the green light without a single objection being raised by the local community.
Mr David O'Connor, of the Galway Bay Country Club, said the site could potentially bring €17 million to the Galway economy.
He added: "The plans are very fitting and blend into the natural resources that we have here."
Once open, scientists and researchers at the site will monitor a section of ocean stretching over 200 million acres, putting the State at the forefront of marine science.
It is also expected to research moves to develop hydro-electricity.