asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will confirm that since 29 February 1988, Eolas, in accordance with their obligations under section 62 of the Irish offshore exploration licensing terms, have listed Celtic Helicopters as being licensed in principle to provide services to offshore installations; if, in response to inquiries they received from oil companies, they have stated that Celtic Helicopters were in a position to provide such services; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Celtic Helicopter Services.
94.
I understand that the Eolas Offshore Register is intended as a service to Irish firms to help bring them to the notice of oil companies and thereby to maximise the use of Irish goods and services offshore. Inclusion in the register does not imply any warranty that the firms are in a position to offer the required level of service for any specific contract. Eolas informs operators and drilling contractors to that effect.
The compilation of the register is, of course, a day-to-day matter for Eolas in which I have no function.