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.