Imposing tariff on Shannon LNG could see €1bn investment and 700 jobs at stake – Griffin

Kerry Fine Gael TD, Brendan Griffin, has said he is seeking a debate on the future of the Shannon LNG project in the Dáil, following the rejection by the High Court today (Wednesday) of a challenge to the decision made by the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) in respect of tariffs to be imposed on the company.

“I have tabled a Topical Issues request to the Ceann Comhairle’s office to have a debate on the consequences of tariffs being imposed on Shannon LNG in respect of the British-Irish gas interconnectors, which could put 700 jobs at the company and €1 billion in investment at risk in the future.

“Today, the High Court rejected a challenge to the legality of the decision of the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) to impose a tariff on Shannon LNG in respect of the British-Irish gas interconnectors, despite the fact that the company does not intend to use them. I have raised this issue with the CER at the Oireachtas Transport and Communications Committee, where it was confirmed to me that the Minister for Communication, Energy & Natural resources, Pat Rabbitte TD, has the power to instruct the CER on policy direction.

“The imposition of this tariff could put the future of Shannon LNG in jeopardy, which would have very serious repercussions for the region. I am very disappointed with today’s decision, and I am seeking a debate in the Dáil tomorrow on this crucial project for our region. I have also written to all other Kerry and Limerick County TDs requesting them to lodge a request with the Ceann Comhairle’s office to ensure that the matter will be discussed.

“My understanding, following questions I asked today at the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport and Communications, is that the Minister has the power to direct the CER not to pursue the policy of charging energy suppliers in respect of the British-Irish Gas interconnectors if such suppliers do not intend to use them. I am calling on the Minister to re-examine this policy and, if he is not willing to do so, to give careful consideration to the loss of €1 billion of badly needed investment in North Kerry and the 700 jobs that could be lost as a result.”

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