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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 May 1995

Vol. 453 No. 1

Written Answers. - Wave Energy Turbine Funding.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

94 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if he will review the decision to cease funding the research and development project into wave energy turbines at University College Cork in view of the Government's stated support for alternative energy and indigenous technology. [7838/95]

My Department has in the past provided funding support to UCC for research relating to wave power. I am aware that UCC has an international reputation in the field of wave energy research which with the aid of EU funds particularly under the JOULE and STRIDE programmes has kept Ireland in the forefront of developments in this field.

However, my major priority at this point in time is to exploit those renewable technologies which are already close to market development in order to take full advantage of their immediate benefits to Ireland.

I am conscious of the potential which wave energy has to offer in the longer term and I will continue to consider the possibilities for its development in the future. I will also ensure that EU funding for this technology is maximised to the greatest extent possible.
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