Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 14 Jun 2000

Vol. 521 No. 2

Written Answers. - Offshore Exploration.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

51 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the recent call from SIPTU to commission an independent assessment of the impact of oil and gas exploration on the Irish economy in view of what it regards as questionable conclusions made in the recent study prepared by the Irish Offshore Operators Association; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16677/00]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey)

As I outlined in my replies to similar questions raised in the House on 10 February, 22 March and 10 May, the study referred to by the Deputy presents empirical data and costs about the number of exploration and appraisal wells drilled offshore Ireland since 1971, 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. I see the report as a constructive contribution to public discussion on this issue.

As I mentioned in previous replies, I met with a delegation from the Irish Offshore Operators Association some time ago and had a very 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 smaller suppliers.

I also mentioned that a seminar on contract awareness for the offshore sector, organised by my Department in conjunction with the Irish Offshore Operators Association, was held on 14 April in Westport. The seminar brought together the main parties involved in the Irish offshore and enabled Irish companies in the goods and services sector to hear at first hand of the opportunities offered by the offshore sector.

As I also mentioned, I have asked Enterprise Ireland to work closely with the Irish Offshore Operators Association and specific operators to ensure there is early notification of future offshore work to potential Irish participants. I am glad to say that the Irish Offshore Operators Association is committed to fully supporting these opportunities and that Enterprise Ireland has regular meetings with the industry to identify and pursue these opportunities.

Given these developments, I see no reason for an independent assessment of the IOOA study or its conclusions.