Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I seek the adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 31 to debate the following urgent matter: the jailing of five innocent landowners from Rossport, County Mayo, who object to the proposed gas pipeline on health and safety grounds. They are trying to protect their lands, families and livelihoods, given that there are two alternative routes for the gas pipeline. One was stopped owing to cost implications or to save Shell some money. The other was stopped for environmental reasons to preserve birds and plants but with no concern for residents.

This project has been supported by the county council and Government and all the resources of the State were put behind it. The views and safety concerns of the residents were not taken into account although they will have to suffer the consequences of the proposed pipeline. I ask that we discuss this issue this morning. Five innocent men are in prison and we want these people out of prison. It is not right. There are people in prison.

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