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Colreavy calls for greater public accountability for oil and gas projects

22 January, 2013 - by Michael Colreavy TD

Deputy Michael Colreavy, Sinn Féin spokesperson on communications, energy and natural resources, has stated that the decision by the Supreme Court, ruling that opponents to the Corrib gas line are out of time to challenge the compulsory acquisition orders, highlights the need to address the awarding of licences for oil and gas exploration.

Speaking on the issue Deputy Colreavy said:
“The legislation which awards the licencing for the exploration of oil and gas needs to be revisited. There exists very little accountability to the public when licences are awarded to oil and gas companies. It appears that the concerns of local residents are only secondary considerations when oil and gas extraction is being planned.

“What is required is an overhaul of the licencing legislation by the government that would place the needs and concerns of local residents to the fore of oil and gas projects. Simultaneously, it is the duty of the government to ensure that the wealth of oil and gas exploration in Ireland is for the benefit of the people of Ireland, and not solely for the profit of oil and gas companies.

“Sinn Féin will be seeking to ensure that legislation governing the oil and gas industry is amended.” ENDS

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