Mayo coastal communities 'face big decisions in Election 2020'
Mayo’s coastal communities need to send a strong voice in Election 2020 that they want the next government to ‘rural proof’ all policies to drive jobs, investment and innovation to the region, according to the Irish Offshore Operators’ Association (IOOA).
The body which represents companies with licences to explore for gas and oil off Mayo and the rest of the Irish coast says any government with a commitment to jobs in coastal communities must support the continued efforts to repeat the success of Corrib gas field off our coast.
IOOA says the impact of the results of Election 2020 will be felt most by those communities which urgently need the jobs and investment offered by a vibrant offshore sector to support local families.
It is warning that the next government must take steps to ensure that the potential of offshore gas to boost ports, regional airports and pump millions in wages and services into the Mayo economy must not be jeopardised.
Mandy Johnston, CEO of the Irish Offshore Operators’ Association, stated: "The decisions which will be made by voters on February 8 will dictate economic, energy and environmental policy for decades to come.
"It is a pivotal moment, in particular for places like Mayo where there remains huge potential to repeat the success seen with the Corrib gas field.
"It is important that the next government is reminded that using our own natural gas is cleaner than importing via post Brexit Britain, can deliver jobs and with one find up to €25 million in wages and services to a coastal community.
"It also ensures that as a country we have the energy security to attract even more investment.
"With Ireland West Airport as well as the extensive marine services already in place to serve Corrib as well as ample accommodation and support services for crews the north west coast has the infrastructure in place to support the search for more gas.
"Now we must ensure that the right policies stay in place to encourage more of this.
"As a sector we are ready to offer the expertise of some of the world’s leading energy companies not only for more exploration work, but also to help develop wind, wave and tidal power off the Mayo coast.
"Our west coast has huge potential in terms of energy. In an uncertain world it can literally keep Ireland’s lights on while meeting all climate commitments. It can also create rural and coastal jobs, providing year-round employment on a large scale.
"In election 2020 it is important that Mayo elects TDs who recognise this potential and will not let others, who have the benefit of the googles, facebooks and twitters delivering their local jobs, to dictate the agenda.”