Kerry councillor says Shannon LNG could play critical role in solving Irish energy supply issues

The proposed Shannon LNG project could play a critical role in solving energy supply issues in Ireland.

That's the view of Fine Gael councillor Jim Finucane.

New Fortress Energy, the global energy company now behind Shannon LNG, has been given permission by An Bórd Pleanála to apply for planning as a strategic infrastructure project, which opposing campaigners say involves no public participation.

This means the applicant bypasses the local authority, in this case Kerry County Council, and applies directly to the planning authority.

Cllr Jim Finucane says this decision shows that An Bórd Pleanála sees the strategic value of the project.

He adds the country is experiencing power supply issues, and Shannon LNG could play a critical role in providing energy for the country.

The decision by An Bórd Pleanála to allow Shannon LNG to bypass the local authority has been criticised by campaigners opposed to the project.

Friends of the Irish Environment says there have been no public notices provided and no public participation.

According to the Irish Independent, the developers behind Shannon LNG say the project is not dependent on fracked gas, and they're confident of supplying it from non-fracked sources.

The developers also says the facility will be future-proofed to convert to hydrogen fuel in future.

These claims have also been disputed by Friends of the Irish Environment.