Shell's only argument for Corrib, is that it will give Ireland 'security of supply'. However, this requires that Ireland bids against buyers in other countries and pay the full international rate. If the international price of gas were to double over the next decade, then the price that Irish consumers pay for gas will double. In the current economic situation, the Irish State will be forced to borrow money to buy back gas that was given to Shell for free.”
Corrib gas protesters have been told by Minister for Energy Eamon Ryan that there was no intention to interfere in the planning process with a letter sent by a Department of Energy official to An Bord Pleanála.
The letter was criticised by by representatives of Shell to Sea, who met Mr Ryan at Government buildings.
On November 2nd last the planning board determined almost half the proposed route for the project was “unacceptable”.
A spokesman for Mr Ryan said the official’s letter was a restatement in writing of testimony given at An Bord Pleanála’s oral hearing.
