Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 422: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which he expects the Corrib gas field to supply the market here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36001/07]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 425: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which he has met with the various interests with a view to resolving outstanding matters at the Corrib gas project; his preferred options in regard to distribution of supply; when he expects this to happen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36006/07]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 426: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position in regard to the production of gas from the Corrib gas field; the extent to which the various requirements have been complied with in order to facilitate the early release of product; when he expects supply to become available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36007/07]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 422, 425 and 426 together.

I understand from the developers, Shell E&P Ireland Ltd, that they expect that first gas will be available in late 2009. I would add, however, that completion of development works by the developer is clearly the principal factor that will determine the date for first gas. At peak production the Corrib Gas Field has the potential to provide up to 60% of Ireland's gas requirements.

Since my appointment as Minister I have met the developers of the project and have also had discussions with parties who are interested in the project.

Consultants engaged by the developers of the Corrib Gas Field are continuing to focus on identifying a modified onshore pipeline route as recommended by the independent mediator Mr Peter Cassells, within the core area around the three indicative route corridor options presented to the public on 19th September 2007. The process of consultation continues and consultants for the developers have carried out further environmental and technical studies, which I understand have led to variations of two of the three indicative corridor options. Consultation around the three indicative corridor options and their variations are due to continue until mid January 2008. After that date the developers will move towards selecting a final preferred route.

Once a preferred route is selected it will be necessary for the developers to make application to me under the Gas Act, 1976 for consent to construct the pipeline. In addition, consent from An Bord Pleanála will also be required under the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act, 2006.

It would not be appropriate for me, having regard to my regulatory role, to express a preference for any particular pipeline route for the Corrib Gas Project.