Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

As we are well aware, the Rossport five were jailed for 94 days. It is interesting that now an expert consultant has raised serious concerns about the safety of the pipeline running close to houses. Another disturbing issue which has emerged is that in 2003 the senior executives of Shell who were concerned about the ongoing delay in the planning process had an emergency meeting with the Taoiseach and two Ministers in order to fast-track the project through the planning process. There was a meeting arranged a week later with the chairman of An Bord Pleanála and the company subsequently got planning permission.

I will outline the nature of my concern. An Bord Pleanála is an independent entity. My experience is that when one telephones on behalf of constituents inquiring about any part of a planning application, one will be told firmly about An Bord Pleanála's independence.

While it is important for the country that this project goes ahead, safety is equally paramount. The safety concerns which have been raised disturb me and appear to vindicate the stance taken by the Rossport five.