Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 July 2014
317. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the function of subscribing to the UK groundwater forum; the amount this costs the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30352/14]
View answerThe Geological Survey of Ireland, which is a division of my Department, is the National geoscience centre and provides objective geological advice and information. The Survey, with circa 60 permanent and contract staff, is relatively small by comparison with other surveys internationally (e.g. BGS circa 1,000 staff, USGS, circa 10,000 staff) and participation in international fora and meetings is important in keeping up to date with geoscience developments internationally. The Groundwater Programme of the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) participates on the Steering Committee of the UK Groundwater Forum. The aims of the Forum, which include raising awareness of groundwater, providing information on groundwater, improving groundwater education and producing and disseminating topical groundwater information, coincide with the GSI's Groundwater Programme’s Outreach initiatives. Participation in the UK Groundwater Forum enables the GSI to engage with other professionals undertaking similar activities and benefit from the experience of the wider group, as well as influencing groundwater topics addressed in more detail at seminars aimed at developing groundwater technical practice and awareness. Other funders of the Forum include Northern Ireland Environment Agency and British Geological Survey, who are contracted to provide scientists to the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland. As such, the GSI's participation in the UK Groundwater Forum underpins an all-island approach to assessing and communicating groundwater resources and issues. The cost per year of participation is €1,000. Up to four meetings are attended, generally by teleconference, incurring limited travel and subsistence costs. Further information on the forum is available at their website http://www.groundwateruk.org/
