Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 March 2012
357 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the current prospects for the Barryroe site 50 km off the south coast of Cork which is currently being explored by Providence Resources; if he will report on potential prospects at the site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16090/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe results of tests carried out recently on the Barryroe oil appraisal well are encouraging. The flow rates achieved are the highest so far for any testing operations in the Wealden formation and represent the first significant flows of oil on test anywhere offshore Ireland in twelve years. While the recent results are encouraging, more work will be required to determine if the discovery can be declared commercial.
My Department is actively promoting exploration for oil and gas both for security of energy supply and as a potentially valuable source of revenue. The results of the Barryroe well further demonstrate the hydrocarbon potential present offshore Ireland and should be of considerable interest to the oil industry.
