asked the Minister for Energy if his review of potential markets for existing and additional supplies of natural gas has been completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
47.
Written Answers. - Gas and Oil Resources.
29.
asked the Minister for Energy when he expects to complete negotiations with the Marathon Corporation for an exploration programme including drilling commitments in blocks they hold under licence in the Celtic Sea.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 47 together.
I have been in discussion with the Marathon company about their failure to carry out adequate exploration in their leased area of the Celtic Sea. These discussions are continuing and it would not be appropriate for me to comment at this stage.
Bord Gáis Éireann is continuing its examination of potential gas markets based on various options combining existing and possible additional sources of supply, and when this is complete, the board will be submitting proposals to me for consideration. The viability of supplying an expanded market is critically dependent on the price at which we can sell gas into it. This, in turn, depends on the cost of gaining access to additional sources of gas. Accordingly, any arrangement for additional supplies would have to take account of our ability to use the gas economically.