Govt-backed study raises concerns about Corrib pipeline

A study commissioned by the Government in an effort to alleviate public concern about the Corrib gas pipeline has expressed concerns about the safety of the controversial structure.

The study by a British consultancy firm warns that there is "potential for people to be harmed" in the event of any accident involving the pipeline.

The company has recommended that the Government investigate the implications of a possible accident before allowing the Corrib project to go ahead.

The study was commissioned by Natural Resources Minister Noel Dempsey in an effort to alleviate the concerns of local residents campaigning against the pipeline in north Co Mayo.

The residents believe many people could be killed in the event of an explosion at the pipeline and want gas from the Corrib field pumped to an offshore terminal instead.