David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 161: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he is satisfied that oil, gas and other mineral explorations here are adequate to meet energy needs in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5410/07]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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Ireland currently imports 100% of its oil requirements and around 85% of its natural gas requirements. The development of the Corrib gas field will reduce, but not eliminate, our requirement for imported gas. In order to reduce our dependence on imports, Ireland needs to encourage an increased level of exploration for hydrocarbons.

The question of meeting our future energy needs will be addressed in the Energy Policy White Paper. Exploration for hydrocarbons will be one strand of that policy.