A geological framework for the continental margin to the west of Ireland

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Abstract
On the basis of newly released magnetic data, a major fault feature is traced southwest across the Irish continental shelf; along the northwestern margin of the Slyne‐Erris Trough, the northern termination of the Porcupine Seabight, and across the Porcupine Ridge toward the vicinity of the eastern termination of the Gibbs Fracture Zone. This major fault passes into, and is identified with, the Great Glen Fault system. Apparent sinistral movement of the order of 50–70 km along the fault displaces a feature tentatively identified as the Highland Boundary Fault. A weak magnetic feature is also identified that might represent the course of the Moine Thrust. The Slyne‐Erris Trough has been referred to as part of a ‘failed’ rift associated with the Seabight opening, but might instead be related to the wrench faulting similar to that seen elsewhere along the Great Glen Fault line. An apparent transform movement along the portion of the fault at the head of the Porcupine Seabight may relate to rifting and the generation of oceanic crust in the central part of the Seabight.Two possible courses for the westward continuation of the Hercynian Front are recognized, and a major Tertiary intrusive centre is identified and related to a zone of dyke swarms.