'Rossport Five' supporters hold rally

The campaign for the release of five men who were jailed for opposing the construction of a Shell gas pipeline in Co Mayo continues today.

A demonstration is to be held in Castlebar this afternoon calling for their release.

Independent TD, Dr Gerry Cowley, who is organising the march, says the controversy over the pipeline has caused widespread anger among locals.

He says an urgent solution is needed.

Dr Cowley said that Minister Dempsey needs to do something to resolve the issue as he is the only one who can “sort this out with Shell”.

“This is a multi-national that is walking all over the small people of the west of Ireland,” he said. “It’s just not going to be tolerated."