Fresh twist in 20-year saga of gas plant on Limerick/Kerry border

THERE’S A new twist in the long-running saga of the proposed liquid natural gas (LNG) plant along the Shannon Estuary.

It comes after An Coimisiún Pleanala, formerly known as An Bord Pleanala re-activates the planning application for the terminal at Ballylongford in north Kerry.

The national planning appeals body had rejected the latest plans for a gas terminal on the estuary in September 2023.

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But following this, the company behind the €650m project instigated Judicial Review proceedings in the High Court against this decision.

A Judicial Review is a mechanism where an application can be made to challenge the decision-making processes of administrative bodies like An Coimisiún Pleanala.

Ultimately, the High Court quashed the An Bord Pleanala refusal decision.

Now it is back on the table for decision.

The proposal to build an LNG terminal in west Limerick/north Kerry has sharply divided opinion since it was first put on the table in 2006.

It is claimed that the proposal could bring up to 500 construction jobs to the border, as well as more than 50 permanent positions once operational, with the Tarbert Development Association particularly welcoming this economic boost.

However, it has been beset by delays, with the Safety Before LNG campaign group highlighting what it feels are dangers around the proposals.

They fear the damage it could do to the local environment, with its spokesperson Johnny McElligott previously warning the scheme could pave the way for fracking in Ireland.

Environment Minister Darragh O’Brien is to be asked to make submissions to the fresh application with the planning board.

Limerick based solicitor Michelle Hayes, president of Environmental Trust Ireland, who has also objected to the proposals, is concerned about the application.

Environmental Trust Ireland had also previously expressed concerns in relation to fracked gas.

Fracking sees a high-pressure water mixture drilled into rocks to release gas inside.

But environmentalists warn potentially carcinogenic chemicals used may escape and contaminate groundwater around a site.

The former An Bord Pleanála refused permission back in 2023, based on Government policy on the importation of fracked gas.

They added that it would be inappropriate to permit or proceed with the development of any LNG terminals in Ireland pending the review of energy supply.