Dempsey bid to end Rossport Five dispute

THERE was fresh hope last night of a resolution in the Rossport Five saga after Communications Minister Noel Dempsey moved to appoint an independent mediator.

"I have contacted both sides in an effort to break the impasse and have indicated that the Government will appoint a mediator if both sides are willing to participate in a mediation process," said Mr Dempsey.

The Rossport Five have been in prison for 93 days for contempt of court arising from their opposition to the Shell pipeline.

Shell Ireland last night said it would consider the minister's statement.

Independent Mayo TD Jerry Cowley, speaking on behalf of the Rossport Five campaign, said the group would not make any comment until further details are made known today.

However, another spokesman for the group, Mark Garavan, repeated previous assertions that mediations could only take place if the men are freed.

Meanwhile, Statoil chief Helge Hatlestad held discussions in Ireland yesterday with Labour TD Tommy Broughan and Shell. Statoil has already invested over €500 million in the Corrib gas project. Norway owns 70% of Statoil, which has a 36.5% beneficiary interest in the Mayo development.

Mr Broughan said he had appealed to Statoil to liaise with Shell and waive the court injunction, allowing the Rossport Five to return to their families. A rally in support of the five men is planned for tomorrow.