Shell protestors defiant after five arrests in Mayo

Five Shell to Sea protestors were arrested today after they tried to stop pipelining work on the controversial gas refinery in Co Mayo.

The Garda Water Unit was drafted in to quell the disturbance at Glengad beach near Belmullet after 15 people surrounded dredging machinery forcing a halt to work.

A garda spokeswoman said the men were taken to the local garda station under the Public Order Act.

"It is alleged the five men were causing interference with the Shell operation," she said.

Campaign group Shell to Sea said dinghies, surfers and swimmers surrounded the machinery and stopped work at around 10am.

"Around three gardaí in a garda boat began arresting the protesters and taking the boats," a spokesman for the protesters said.

"Today's action was part of a Shell to Sea week of action against the pipeline."

The protesters vowed to continue their campaign tomorrow and the following days until pipeline work stops.