EIRE: AHERN DEFENDS 'SHELLS COPS'

The Minister of Justice, Dermot Ahern TD, has defended the Garda Siochana in a response to the Celtic League. The League had written to outline concerns about what it perceived as heavy-handed policing of demonstrations in north Mayo against the Corrib Gas Plant.

Minister Ahern (via his private secretary) advises that the Garda operation in the area is to ensure that those engaged in the work on the development can 'go about out their lawful business in conditions of safety and good order'.

The Minister seems to be unaware of recent judgements in a United Kingdom court case where protesters were cleared of criminal damage charges arising from protests at the Kingsnorth coal fired power plant.

Attitudes in Europe are changing towards the multi-nationals and corporations who despoil the environment, Irish police should be facilitating the right of Mayo people to protest not defending a corporation which pose a threat in the long term to Irelands environment.

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform letter set out in full below:

«Rhisiart Tal-e-bot General Secretary Celtic League

1st October, 2008

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am directed by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Mr. Dermot Ahern T.D. to refer to your recent letter to him with regard to the Corrib Gas Project in County Mayo.

The Minister fully shares your view that persons have a democratic right to express their views peacefully through legal means. The ongoing Garda operation in the area is directed at ensuring that right and ensuring that public order is maintained.

The Garda operation is also to allow those engaged in the work on this development to go about out their lawful business in conditions of safety and good order, as is their entitlement.

Yours sincerely,

Private Secretary»

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J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League

01/10/08