Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 59: To ask the Minister for Transport his plans to meet the transport needs of ocean energy providers along the Atlantic coast; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42740/10]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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The primary transport needs of the ocean energy sector are maritime transport needs, in particular the availability of specialist ships and port facilities. My Department is currently carrying out a ports policy review. The consultation document published in September last contains a section dealing with ports and energy policy. The document acknowledges the very significant proposals that are under development in relation to ocean energy, in particular offshore wind. New deepwater port sites may be required to service this industry. One of the questions raised in the consultation is whether further action might be required to meet these needs.

The Irish Maritime Development Office and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland are also currently conducting a joint study to examine the potential of Irish ports and shipping companies to meet the demand for future offshore energy projects. This work will be completed shortly and an industry briefing is planned for January 2011.