Vol. 424 No. 8
95 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Energy if he will provide details of the offshore explorations in Irish waters which have been carried out in 1991; the results of such explorations; if he has satisfied himself that all explorations adhered to proper exploration procedures; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Seven seismic surveys took place and one exploration well was drilled in Irish waters in 1991. The details are as follows: 3 surveys in the Celtic Sea, covering 770 km; 1 survey in the Irish Sea, covering 400 km; 1 survey in the Slyne Trough, covering 500 km; 1 survey in the Rockall Trough, covering 240 km; 1 survey in the Erris/Slyne Frontier area covering 1885 km. The well was drilled by Marathon Petroleum Ireland, Ltd. off the Wexford coast in Block 50/3 and was plugged and abandoned.
The data from the seismic surveys and the exploration well have been lodged with the Petroleum Affairs Division of my Department. As required, the data will be kept confidential for certain periods. I am satisfied that the surveys and the exploration well were conducted in accordance with the rules and procedures laid down by my Department and with good industry practice.
