Breeda Moynihan-Cronin (Kerry South, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 88: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position of the Corrib gas pipeline project; the contacts he has recently had with Shell and local opponents of the pipeline development; the way he envisages this dispute being resolved in a safe and agreed manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5322/07]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My function in relation to the Corrib is a regulatory one. I have, however, done everything possible within that role to create the conditions that would allow the difficulties associated with this project to be resolved. Arising from concerns about the safety of the onshore pipeline I had a comprehensive safety review of the pipeline carried out by Advantica consultants. I also appointed Mr. Peter Cassells as mediator in the dispute. It has been a priority for me that people with concerns regarding safety should have an opportunity to have these considered. For that reason I very much welcomed the focus on local dialogue throughout the safety review and mediation process.

I published the reports and recommendations of both Advantica and the mediator. The developer, Shell, has accepted the various recommendations. The mediator recommended that, in order to address local concerns about the proximity of the pipeline route to houses, the developers should modify the route in the vicinity of Rossport. The developer has committed itself to implementing this recommendation and I understand that public consultation with the local community is now underway to help choose the optimum route. I also understand that the developer has commenced contacts with An Bord Pleanála in relation to new pipeline routing options, in the context of the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006.

My Department, meanwhile, has ongoing contact with the developer as part of its role in monitoring the project. I remain hopeful that the safety studies, together with the work of the mediator, have paved the way for progress in this matter.