PDs back developing the Corrib gas field

THE controversial Corrib gas field off Co Mayo must be developed to supply Ireland’s future energy needs, the Progressive Democrats said yesterday.

A Government-appointed mediator is attempting to resolve a long-running dispute, which saw five local men serve more than three months in prison last year for breaching a High Court order halting a blockade of the construction of an inshore pipeline by Shell.

But the PDs yesterday urged the rapid development of the gas field as a key priority in its Power The Future discussion document on Irish energy.