Shell pipeline - Locals should be open to compromise

NEWS that Shell Ireland will modify the route of its gas pipeline, as well as dropping legal action against five protestors in Mayo, will be widely welcomed.

Mired in a public relations disaster of its own making, the oil giant wisely accepted the advice of Government-appointed mediator Peter Cassells.

Effectively, Shell has been embarrassed into moving the controversial Corrib pipeline away from the homes of the Rossport Five who opposed it on safety grounds and were jailed for contempt.

Doubtless, this controversy will drag on if the problem is foisted on another unwilling community in the Erris area. For now, however, the Rossport residents and the Shell To Sea group can feel vindicated.

Given that Shell has bowed in the face of pragmatic advice, the protesters should also be prepared to compromise.