Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 April 2013
124. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the location from which the oil rig that is currently drilling off Dunquin, County Kerry, is being serviced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20197/13]
View answerA shore base has been established in the Port of Cork for the duration of the Dunquin well operations. A fleet of four vessels will be rotating between the drilling unit and the shore base to provide support for the operations. The fleet includes two certified standby vessels with one vessel stationed at the drilling unit at all times. A Cork based company has been engaged by the operator in providing shore base services, including stevedoring and equipment storage. In addition, waste management services and fuel supply are also being provided by Irish companies. Helicopter flights to and from the drilling unit are being operated out of Cork Airport.
