Gas Exploration Licences

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2015

Tuesday, 16 June 2015

Ceisteanna (854)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

854. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of oil, gas or other exploration licences issued over the past ten years that have not been activated to date; the reason for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23889/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

When an exploration licence is granted by my Department it is active. The licence is granted subject to an agreed work programme, the progress of which is monitored by my Department. Therefore, there have been no exploration licences granted in the past ten years that have not been activated.