Corrib gasline protester goes on hunger strike

A leading opponent of the controversial Corrib gasline went on hunger strike last night.

Maura Harrington, one of the most vocal Shell to Sea campaigners, said she began the strike to coincide with the arrival of a pipe-laying vessel.

Ms Harrington said she handed a letter in to the captain of the Solitaire yesterday which stated she would continue her action until the vessel leaves.

Protesters began a vigil at the gates of the Shell compound in Glengad in support of Ms Harrington's hunger strike.

Meanwhile, gardaí arrested three men earlier last night for public order disturbances.

The men were protesting on their fishing vessels against the laying of the pipeline at Broadhaven Bay.

This is the latest in a series of incidents centred around the laying of pipeline off the Mayo coast.