Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 November 2020
236. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications the harbours that are considered suitable or relevant to the development of marine resources along the west coast of Ireland in view of the fact that the area is being viewed as an area that may be suitable for the development of marine renewables; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35339/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government commits to producing a plan setting out a path to achieve 5 GW of offshore wind by 2030 as well as a longer term plan setting out how we will take advantage of the massive potential of offshore energy on the Atlantic Coast, in particular taking advantage of a potential of at least 30GW of offshore floating wind power in the Atlantic. This plan will focus on utilising our existing energy and maritime infrastructure and will seek to create the right investment environment and support ocean energy research where necessary in the areas of floating wind, tidal, and wave power. My Department is engaged with other relevant Departments and agencies regarding the potential of Ireland’s supply chain in this area including with regard to harbour and associated facilities. The development of our offshore wind sector presents significant opportunities to Irish businesses, communities and the economy as a whole. Regional ports are already experiencing inward investment in anticipation of the significant upgrading works required for turbine assembly and deployment. Smaller ports will also see the creation of long-term jobs, as these ports are often more closely located to the wind farm sites themselves, and will be required for ongoing operation and maintenance.
