Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 33: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress being made by the forum for discussion set up in response to concerns expressed relating to bringing gas ashore in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24145/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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The North West Mayo Forum was established by the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and I last November. Its objectives are to offer a positive opportunity for furthering the socio-economic development of the North West Mayo Region and to provide an opportunity for dialogue between all parties with an interest in the Corrib Gas Project on all aspects of the project.

Membership of the Forum includes representatives of a wide range of local groups; elected public representatives; Government Departments, State bodies and Shell E&P Ireland Limited along with representatives of its local workforce. A number of local groups opposed to the current configuration of the gas project have declined to participate in the Forum. Together with the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, I have facilitated a number of meetings with such groups outside of the Forum.

The Forum has met on three occasions and has facilitated discussion and debate on a range of issues relevant to the project and the region. In particular the Forum has helped promote an understanding of how the Corrib Gas Project is regulated by enabling members of the Forum to participate in a coordinated presentation and discussion with Government Departments and State bodies that have a regulatory role. Discussion and debate have also taken place on development opportunities in North West Mayo, including potential renewable energy related projects. The next meeting of the Forum will take place on Monday, 22nd June.