Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
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Question 49: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will provide a detailed report to Dáil Éireann on the gas and oil exploration licences he has issued to date in 2006; the further licences he will issue before the end of 2006; if these will include the Porcupine Round; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33435/06]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy will be aware that there are two mechanisms for the issue of licences in the Irish offshore. The 'open door' system applies to areas which are more accessible and which include the Celtic Sea and the Irish Sea. Under this system applications may be made at any time. A number of applications for authorisations are on hand and are being processed by my Department.

The 'Licensing Round' system applies to more challenging areas including the frontier areas of the Atlantic Margin. Under this system the areas remain closed until opened for applications under licensing rounds. Applications may then be made within a certain timeframe and subject to conditions which are specific to that round. Under this system the Slyne/Erris/Donegal Licensing Round was announced last year with a closing date of 15th March last. I announced on 19th August my intention to make offers of four exploration licences and I expect these licences to be issued shortly.

I also announced my decision that the next licensing round should take place in the Porcupine Basin. This is planned for 2007 and I will announce further details shortly.

The Deputy will also be aware that details of licences issued are included in the six-monthly reports which I lay before each House of the Oireachtas.