West Cork's gas field to boost energy output

The first gas from the Seven Heads field off the Cork coast will begin flowing in the next few days.

The Seven Heads field has a reserve of 390 billion cubic feet of gas and is expected to supply 10-15% of the country's demand.

The field has a life of around 20 years and will become increasingly important to the country's gas supply when the Kinsale Head field runs out in a few years.

The State is expecting to reap around €80m in tax revenue during the life of the Seven Heads and the gas field will also produce 300 jobs.