A Junior Minister is accusing a Clare environmental group of not living in the real world regarding Ireland’s energy security.
It comes as Cabinet has signed off on a controversial plan to build a liquefied natural gas terminal off the coast of Ireland.
Liquefied natural gas, or LNG, is an odorless, colorless, non-toxic and non-corrosive natural gas that has been cooled to liquid form for ease of transport.
Although it produces 30% less carbon dioxide than burning petroleum and about 45% less than burning coal for an equivalent amount of heat, studies have linked the fuel to respiratory issues, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
This week, the Government has approved plans to construct an LNG reserve, which it claims is necessary as a backup source of energy as the country transitions to renewables.
Environmental group Futureproof Clare has long called for a ban on LNG and has been one of the most vocal opponents of Shannon LNG’s plans to build a terminal off the coast of Ballylongford in the Shannon Estuary.
Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Kerry Deputy Micheal Healy-Rae says it’s a reality that we’re leaving ourselves vulnerable without an energy reserve.
This week, the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council and the Climate Change Advisory Council have issued a joint report warning the Government that it could face fines of up to €26 billion if it fails to meet its 2030 climate targets.
The State’s plans for an LNG reserve involve importing fracked gas for the US.
Scariff-based Futureproof Clare spokesperson Sinéad Sheehan says there are more environmentally-friendly options to be explored within Europe.
Morning Focus Presenter, Alan Morrissey spoke with Michael Healy Rae and Sinéad Sheehan this Thursday.
Listen to the full interview here:
