Decision on Corrib pipeline deferred

An Bord Pleanála has deferred making a final decision on the controversial Corrib gas pipeline in Co Mayo and has asked Shell Ireland to address concerns it has about its safety.

The 9km onshore pipeline is designed to link the offshore gas field with the multi-million euro refinery being built at Bellanaboy.

An Bord Pleanála says the documentation provided by Shell does not present a complete, transparent and adequate demonstration that the pipeline does not pose an unacceptable risk to the public.

It says part of the route - approximately 5.6km - is considered unacceptable because of its proximity to houses located within its hazard range should a pipeline failure occur.

The board has now written to Shell asking it to consider a series of modification that is considers necessary.

It says that, in principle, having regard to the strategic importance of the Corrib gas field, it was provisionally the view of the board that it would be appropriate to approve the onshore pipeline should the alterations it suggests be made.

It has now invited Shell to submit new proposals on the route of the pipeline; to provide further clarification on the technical design of the pipe and it is also seeking a new statement on Shell's risk assessment analysis on the pipeline.

Reacting to the decision, John Monaghan, Spokesperson for Pobal Chill Chomáin, said they were not surprised by the decision and were disappointed that An Bord Pleanála did not turn down the application altogether.

Shell to Sea campaigner Maura Harrington said: 'If over half the pipeline is unacceptable from a health and safety perspective it means that the project it has failed under the criteria for sustainable development and good planning.

'It proves it would be a pipeline to profits for Shell and poverty for the country. So it's time to renegotiate everything.'