Corrib protestors arrested

Gardaí and environmentalists have clashed tonight at the site of a controversial gas pipeline on the west coast of Ireland.

Six male activists were arrested at the Shell plant at Glengad beach in Co Mayo during the disturbances.

Trouble flared when campaigners opposed to the pipeline, which will bring gas ashore from the Corby seabed 52 miles from the coast, attempted to pull down a security fence around the construction zone.

Around 150 protestors had gathered at the site near Belmullet, Rossport at 6pm amid a major Garda presence following a much promoted call for a demonstration rally.

A Garda spokeswoman said: “There were men, women and a number of children among the protestors.

“They arrived at the site with tables and ropes, which they tied round the fence in an effort to pull it down. It was at this point when gardaí moved in and made six arrests. There was no breach of the compound.”

Those arrested were aged from their late teens to their 40s.

Tension in the area has intensified in recent weeks after construction recommenced after a winter break.

Last month, a masked gang entered the site late at night armed with chains and iron bars and commandeered a mechanical digger, which they used to damage the security fence. Private security guards alleged they were assaulted and threatened.

Hours later, Willie Corduff – one of five protestors jailed in 2005 over demonstrations against the pipeline – claimed he was set upon by security personnel.