Beverley Flynn (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 128: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the benefits for the people of Mayo of the Corrib gas find. [17459/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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Over the life of the Corrib field it will contribute to reduced importation of natural gas and an enhancement of our security of supply of energy. The construction work will contribute to Exchequer income from corporation, payroll and indirect taxation in so far as it relies on sourcing of Irish skills, staff and material. Operations will similarly contribute to the Exchequer and will also yield lease rental income.

In addition to sharing in general prosperity, communities in Mayo will benefit where there is local sourcing of workers, services and goods. Direct construction employment will be of the order of 100, will rise to 500 and then fall back to 200 over the project period. It is anticipated that 50 to 60 staff in three shifts will be employed to operate the terminal. It is the stated policy of the operating company to recruit and train local staff to work the terminal and I understand that main and subcontractors on the project have recruited some of their labour requirements locally.