Mr. Gareth R. ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what action he is taking to promote onshore to offshore wind energy in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement. [113684]
§ Mr. Ingram[holding answer 9 March 2000]: The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment and the Department of Public Enterprise, Dublin, have jointly commissioned a study into the potential for off-shore wind energy around the island of Ireland. The study report is expected shortly and, in the light of its recommendations, consideration will be given to how best to develop the potential of this renewable technology.