Conor Lenihan (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

I am not suggesting we should bulldoze anything. If we add an extra layer as proposed by Deputy Coveney, we will do what is not done in other jurisdictions. One of the big problems, from an investment point of view, is the legacy of Corrib. As a result of that case, many people are not prepared to apply for Irish exploration licences. There is a perception that the process is difficult, cumbersome and bureaucratic. They believe that a multiplicity of permissions is required in the safety area and in other areas. Officials in the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources are working on this process pretty much night and day. They are trying to make it simpler, easier and more in keeping with what happens internationally. If we do not do that, there will not be any jobs. As the Deputy is aware, the oil situation is causing many exploration companies to take risks in deeper waters like those off the coast of Ireland. They are keen to do so. However, there is a very negative attitude towards Ireland in this area.

As someone who worked in business, I am most worried about the fact that the global boards of companies are saying "No", even after their key executives have recommended that licences be applied for. There is a perception that our system is cumbersome, unwieldy, difficult and subject to ambush by conspiracy theory.

We have managed to confuse this whole area with different processes. We are at the nub of it here. I accept that Deputy Coveney is approaching this issue with the best of intentions. To be honest, this problem is not just a feature of this area. I will not bore the House with my views on the manner in which, over the last ten years, we have made other areas much more bureaucratic than they should be. I will put my hands up in that regard because we have been in Government for that period. I strongly believe it is time for this country to reduce the obstacles that inhibit inward investment in Ireland. We should allow such investment to occur. While I appreciate the support I have received today, and admire Deputy Coveney's approach to this legislation, I cannot go along with what the Deputy has proposed in this instance.

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