Ferris Expresses Concern Over Infrastructure Bill
The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Natural Resources, Martin Ferris TD expressed his concern that the Strategic Infrastructure Bill, published today, could be used in order to prevent communities and individuals from gaining a proper hearing at the planning stage of major projects.
Deputy Ferris said: “I am particularly worried that this Bill could be used in order to push through projects such as the proposed Corrib gas pipeline without being subject to a proper hearing at the planning stage. Indeed I am aware that this legislation was first mentioned by the Taoiseach following a meeting with the President of Shell who apparently raised concerns over the planning process here. It is vital that projects that could bring potential harm to the environment and local communities are subject to the closest possible scrutiny, and for that reason I will opposing this Bill.” ENDS