As I outlined in my reply to a similar question raised in the House on 10 February, the study referred to by the Deputy presents empirical data and costs about the number of exploration and appraisal wells drilled off Ireland since 1971 and points out the employment created onshore arising from this expenditure in the past and the potential for such employment in the future. The study draws straightforward conclusions from these levels of past activity. It also puts forward a programme of action which addresses the issue of opportunities for Irish industry in the domestic and international offshore industry. The report is a constructive contribution to public discussion on this issue.
Since 10 February I met a delegation from the Irish Offshore Operators Association and had a useful discussion on how Irish industry could increase its share of goods and services supplied to the offshore exploration sector. I highlighted my expectations that Irish companies should be given full and fair opportunities to compete at all stages of exploration and to bid for work. I also expect that every effort will be made to accommodate small suppliers.
I mentioned in my reply in February that I was organising a business awareness seminar for the suppliers of goods and services to the exploration and production sector. A seminar called Contract Awareness for the Offshore Sector will be held in Westport on Friday, 14 April and is being organised by my Department in conjunction with the Irish Offshore Operators Association. We are bringing together all interested parties to ensure our strategies are effective and our bids are competitive in all respects if and when contracts are on offer. I will be able to present for the first time to any exploration concern a full and comprehensive inventory of Irish skills and know-how.