Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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Question 514: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if, in view of the fact that work has commenced on a project to assess the carbon storage potential in the vicinity of Moneypoint power station, County Clare, and the requirement to construct a 3D model of the subsurface there, new funding will be made available to complete the additional investigations required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17404/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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The project is a joint one between the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) of my Department and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It is comprised of two parts. The first is the creation of a 3D model of the subsurface. This is being undertaken by consultants funded by the EPA. The second part consists of drilling investigations. This is being undertaken by GSI using existing resources. This will provide an indication of the suitability, or otherwise, of certain rock types to act as geological reservoirs for carbon dioxide. Further development of the concept will depend on the outcome of the work now being undertaken.