How gas terminal and the Hulk have affected coalition formation process
HOLLYWOOD actor Mark Ruffalo – famous for playing the Hulk in the ‘Avengers’ movies – has weighed in behind government formation efforts. It’s all because of promises on a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Co Kerry and an ambition to ban the importation of fracked gas. It’s one of the more bizarre episodes in the process of putting together a coalition with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. Here’s what you need to know about it:
What is the Shannon LNG project?
There have been plans for years for an LNG terminal to be built in Co Kerry on the Shannon estuary. LNG is gas that’s liquefied to make it easier to transport. Ships would arrive at the terminal where it would be turned back into gas for use in the energy market.
Why is it controversial?
It’s believed much of the gas would be imported from the US, where it has been extracted from the ground by fracking. Fracking involves injecting the earth with high-pressure water and chemicals and has been much criticised by environmentalists. The practice is banned here.
What does programme for government say?
It commits to taking the Shannon LNG terminal off the EU’s Projects of Common Interests list, which allows funding and fasttrack planning. It says the new government would not support the importation of fracked gas. It commits to help the region to develop alternative economic activities.
Does this mean the terminal won’t happen?
Not necessarily. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said under the programme for government, the development wouldn’t get subsidies but the company behind it may still choose to proceed through the planning process. ‘Kerry’s Eye’ newspaper reported that New Fortress Energy still intends to push ahead with the terminal and an adjoining data centre that could provide hundreds of jobs.
How has the programme for government plan been received in the region?
Not well among some politicians and people hopeful of an economic boost. Former Fianna Fáil TD John Brassil said he’d vote ‘no’ on going into government due to the decision. Councillors branded Fine Gael MEP Seán Kelly “a disgrace” for accepting the deal.
Is the Green Party happy?
There’s still doubt among opponents of the deal that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael will deliver on the environmental promises but the commitment on the LNG terminal is seen by the programme’s supporters to be a major ‘win’. Green Party deputy leader Catherine Martin last night described comments by Mr Varadkar and others on the LNG terminal as “really unhelpful”. Ms Martin said comments and media appearances in recent days had “cast doubt” over the strength of the agreed wording on LNG.
And what about the Hulk?
Ruffalo has been a long-time anti-fracking campaigner. He had an online chat with Mr Ryan and Ms Martin last night. Ruffalo said the programme for government could be a “monumental achievement for Ireland to become the first country in the world to ban fracked gas imports”.