Seán Ryan (Dublin North, Labour)
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Question 121: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will provide an assessment of the current state of play with the Corrib gas pipeline development in relation to the safety audit and mediation; when building will re-commence on the project; if he will report on the manner in which consents were issued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27859/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy will be aware that I received a positive response to my indication that the Government would appoint a mediator provided both sides indicated their willingness to participate in the mediation process. I am in the process of identifying a mediator to undertake this work.

On 25 August last I appointed Advantica consultants to conduct a safety review of the Corrib onshore upstream gas pipeline. This review is currently under way. The review includes a public consultation process and a two-day public hearing in the locality. The public hearing commenced this morning. Pending the outcome of this review, Shell E&P Ireland Limited has, at my request, ceased all works on the onshore pipeline. In addition, it has ceased works on the offshore pipeline to allow for a period of public discussion and dialogue. The company will use this time to address remaining public concerns.

The development of the Corrib gas field has received all required approvals and consents from my Department as required by law. My Department is responsible for the regulatory aspects of petroleum exploration and development. Authorisations were granted for the Corrib gas field under a number of provisions. Under the Continental Shelf Act 1968, authorisation was given for the construction of the sub-sea facilities within the continental shelf designated areas by my predecessor. My predecessor also gave consent for the plan for the development of the field under the Petroleum and Other Minerals Development Act 1960. Under the Gas Act 1976, as amended, consent was given for the construction of a gas pipeline from the gas field through the offshore up to the terminal building. A foreshore licence was also granted under the Foreshore Acts. In accordance with EU environmental impact assessment directives, an environmental impact statement was carried out and submitted with each application for consent or approval.