Energy

Ryan urged to set aside ‘idealogy’ in gas exploration licence extension

Brian O’Cathain fears an application by his firm Europa Oil & Gas for an 18-month extension to its exploration licence may be ‘left in limbo’ by the Minister for Environment

Brian O’Cathain, chairman of Europa Oil & Gas: ‘We want to work proactively with the minister, but he can’t let ideology and optics get in the way of practical necessity when the country is facing unprecedented energy security threats.’ Picture: Fergal Phillips

Eamon Ryan should set aside ideology and sign off on a licence extension that would allow for the potential development of a new natural gas prospect close to the existing Corrib gas field, the head of a British oil and gas company has said.

Brian O’Cathain, chairman of Europa Oil & Gas, a London-listed energy firm which owns the Inishkea gas field off the west coast of the country, said he feared the company’s application ...