asked the Minister for Energy the number of definite and confirmed drilling commitments to oil exploration which are in place for 1987; the names of the companies involved; and if this number is considered as satisfactory or disappointing.

It is not possible at this early stage to give precise details of the total number of wells which will in fact be drilled in 1987. In accordance with specific obligations under the terms of particular licences, three contractual wells as a minimum are already listed for 1987. There is also the possibility that further drilling commitments may arise as a result of both current negotiations and this year's drilling programme results.

Of course, I am not satisfied that, as of now, the level of drilling commitments for 1987 is satisfactory in absolute terms, but I am realistic enough to recognise that the next year or so may be a valley period for Irish and, indeed, world wide exploration given the present oil price situation. Current low oil prices are, of course, bringing their own considerable benefits to the economy as a whole. As the Deputy is aware, it is not open to me to release details of the contractual obligations of licensees having regard to the confidentiality provisions of the licensing terms. I am not at liberty, therefore, to mention the names of any companies involved.

Did the Minister say he has only three firm contractual commitments to drill off the Irish shore next year?

That is so.

Does the Minister not consider that very disappointing?

As I said in my reply, it is obviously not satisfactory, but it is early yet. It is quite unusual for that type of information to be given at this time.

In which areas do the three commitments apply?

As I have said, it is quite unusual to release information of this kind. I am not at liberty to release information at present about licences.

I am asking the Minister please to be forthcoming. I am not asking for the names of the companies who have given commitments to drill. Do these arise in relation to the second licensing round or the third?

It would appear there are two from the third round and one from the second.

We have had a disastrous third licensing round, with only two commitments arising from it. Does the Minister attribute that to the policy he has been pursuing, and the fact that one major company has withdrawn from further drilling and exploration off the Irish coast?

I do not accept any of the implications by the Deputy. I have made the position quite clear in relation to the withdrawal by the large company in question. That must be looked at in conjunction with the world wide position.

Has the Minister got any assurance from the Taoiseach that the so called committee to which the Taoiseach took exception recently has been disbanded?

That is another question.