Mayo County Council expects to make its decision within "two to three weeks" on the revised planning application for the Corrib gas terminal lodged by Enterprise Energy Ireland (EEI).
Last week, as placard-waving protesters greeted him in Geesala, the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources said he was a "strong supporter" of the gas project. But Mr Fahey added that all necessary environmental protections would be in place before it was piped ashore.
The group of 20 or so protesters oppose the siting of a gas terminal in Bellanaboy.
Mr Fahey defended his role when he travelled to north Mayo to host an information seminar in Teach Iorrais. He promised that the seminar would be the first in a series.
The process includes other statutory bodies - planning permission from Mayo County Council and an Integrated Pollution Control licence from the Environmental Protection Agency. Once the petroleum lease is granted, EEI must submit a plan of development for the project within two years.
Department officials and personnel from ERM, a consultancy firm retained by the Minister, addressed the crowd.
Mr Fahey said he relied on the advice of his officials when he acted in the dual role of regulator and promoter of natural resources. He also promised to make public the amount paid to Coillte by Enterprise Energy for a site to build the gas terminal. The Minister promised to meet individuals or groups to explore further any matter causing concern.
At a meeting with fishermen after the seminar, the Minister said no decision would be taken without first consulting them.