Caít Keane (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Coyle and welcome him here today. This is one of the most important meetings this committee has held, although the witnesses might not think so because only two of us are here. It is all being recorded and their submissions will be read by other people involved in the committee. The whole map of Ireland shows our footprint. We have so much wealth in our resources that how we keep and use them is very important. Five years ago I was very excited about marine technology but my excitement has waned somewhat because it is taking so long. I would like to hear from Mr. Coyle about a company called Wavebob. I do not know the company but because I am from the west I kept an eye on it. Is it in Scotland now? I have lost track. We need to learn more. We hear a lot about wind energy and what it can do and new advances but I thought it would be more advanced at this point.

The witnesses are here today as an association and I want to compliment the Marine Renewables Industry Association, which is an all-Ireland body. Water does not have boundaries and, hopefully, neither do we. On the day of the announcement that the President is going to England, it is great to see an all-Ireland association before the committee.

In addition to wind energy, the north-east coast around Antrim and all of the west coast have high potential for wave energy. I would like to learn more on how advanced this is. It is all right to promote it but I would like to know if this is still all a matter of science and research. It was said there was one project at Strangford and I believe there may be potential for tidal power at Drogheda. I would like to see this progressing more quickly.

I am delighted the Marine Renewables Industry Association is pleased with what is contained in the heads of the Bill at present. We will obviously have to listen to all of the input to make it a better Bill, which is what the committees are all about. I thank the witnesses. As I said, my excitement has waned somewhat in regard to tidal energy. Perhaps it will be renewed today and I look forward to hearing the rest of the discussion.