Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 November 2008
156 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of exploration wells drilled off the Irish coast to date in 2008; the locations of the drilling operations; the names of the exploration companies in question; if there has been any indication given to his Department of the results arising from same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42002/08]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department is provided with well results data on a daily real time basis as each well is being drilled and also receives a comprehensive report on the outcome of each drilling operation after drilling has been completed. This information, however, remains confidential for a period of up to five years after drilling has been completed in the case of exploration wells drilled under an exploration licence granted before 1 January 2007 and for 4 years in the case of licences granted after that date.
Details of the exploration wells drilled during 2008 are as follows:
|
Area |
Operator |
Authorisation |
Rig Release Date |
|
Rockall Basin |
Shell E&P Ireland Ltd |
EL2/94 |
28 July 2008 |
|
Erris Basin |
Statoil Exploration Ireland Ltd |
EL5/94 |
08 July 2008 |
|
North Celtic Sea Basin |
Providence Resources Plc |
EL2/07 |
01 September 2008 |
|
North Celtic Sea Basin |
Providence Resources Plc |
EL2/07 |
28 September 2008 |
