Kenny welcomes Shell pipeline work deferral

Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny has welcomed Shell's decision to defer work on the controversial Corrib gas pipeline in his native Mayo.

The company said yesterday the move was designed to encourage dialogue with local residents concerned about the pipeline project.

The residents, who want an offshore terminal built instead of an onshore pipeline, have responded with scepticism to the announcement.

Spokeswoman Maura Harrington claimed it was a ploy by Shell to make the five men jailed for obstructing work on the pipeline look unreasonable.

However, Mr Kenny said the decision would allow for a "full examination of all of the legitimate health and safety concerns about the pipeline".