Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)

He did not seem to have that view several months ago and was, in comparison, rather negative about the prospect. How will this process operate in terms of the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act and the functions of An Bord Pleanála? In regard to the revised pipeline route, will the companies go straight to An Bord Pleanála, under the provisions of that Act, in terms of the planning that is required?

Like the Minister, I have ongoing contacts with the parties involved, including Shell, Statoil and the Shell to Sea campaign. There are ongoing concerns about the siting of the terminal. Does the Minister see any possibility that the terminal could be moved seaward, which would finally resolve the issue and ensure the gas comes ashore in 2009, which is what we all want? As energy spokespersons, we know it is desperately needed.

Constituents and citizens throughout the State to whom I have spoken are interested in the immediate issue but are also concerned with the broader issue of licensing terms in respect of our natural resources. Under pressure from members of the Opposition, the Minister appointed Indecon to look at the licensing terms and conditions for the major exploration companies. Will he ensure that report is given to the House before the general election? If it is, will he introduce legislation? For example, does he have any plans to amend the Finance Bill to give the country, or the people, better terms because under the Minister's licensing arrangements, when companies discover gas or oil, it is theirs and this nation, effectively, gets nothing? The people are profoundly interested in that issue which the Minister could address even at this late stage in the Government's term in office. When will Indecon report?

I understand summer 2007 will be a busy season for exploration on the Atlantic margin despite the Minister's downplaying of it in earlier years.

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