Joe Cooney (Clare, Fine Gael)

I thank all the delegates for attending and for their presentations.

The west coast of Ireland has the potential to generate up to 70 GW of electricity from floating offshore wind energy. We have repeatedly heard about proposed offshore wind energy projects in Clare. The lack of certainty around planning and consents has proved to be a huge stumbling block for investors, unfortunately. It is clear that floating offshore wind energy technology is still evolving. If we want to take very seriously the opportunity to generate momentum, attract investment and ensure we are prepared to move at pace as the technology matures, we do not need to wait for the DMAP process to finish before we consider the development of the technology. My belief is that we need to run both together.

I have a question. Do the delegates believe we should create pilot designated areas for research into, and the development of, floating offshore energy projects? Doing so would speed up the development of the technology, ensuring Ireland takes full advantage of the potential of offshore wind. I am thinking in particular of the area off the coast of Clare, given the onshore facilities at Shannon Estuary and especially at Moneypoint. What are the delegates' views?