Pobal Chill Chomain Press Release – 11/09/2008 – Erris fishermen

mayo | rights, freedoms and repression | press release Friday September 12, 2008 11:09 by JM

Pobal Chill Chomain fully supports local employer and businessman Patrick O'Donnell and his fellow Erris fishermen in their efforts to protect their lawfully held property in Broadhaven Bay against the intimidatory tactics of Shell Statoil and Marathon Oil.

We object to the planned laying of the offshore pipeline to a landfall at Glengad, especially when Shell have not obtained any approval for the onshore sections of upstream pipeline or the experimental valve installation. All of this would pose a major risk to public health and safety and threaten the integrity of a pristine marine environment that has sustained countless generations.

Recent events surrounding the Corrib gas project highlight the need for an urgent resolution to the difficulties now facing us, particularly when viable alternatives exist. We call on all State authorities to fulfil their primary duty of care to all citizens, and to protect our fishermen's constitutional right to an adequate means of livelihood.

For verification contact John Monaghan on 086 3123439