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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 Jun 2001

Vol. 537 No. 5

Written Answers. - Corrib Gas Field.

Michael Ring

Question:

162 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if mercury will be part of the chemical discharge from the Corrib gas terminal in north County Mayo; and if so, if an in-depth study has been carried out on the effects such a discharge will have. [17182/01]

I have not yet received a revised environmental impact statement, EIS, from Enterprise Energy Ireland in connection with the Corrib development. I understand that Enterprise Energy Ireland is preparing a revised EIS which will be submitted in support of both its applications for a foreshore licence and in the context of the submission of the plan of development for my approval.

There may be trace amounts of mercury in the well stream from the Corrib gas field, which is not unusual for natural gas fields. I understand that Enterprise Energy Ireland has carried out some studies on how to deal with any mercury in the gas, gas condensate or water. The main approach will be the installation of mercury removal equipment; this is expected to reduce mercury concentration to below measurable levels and within EPA guidelines.
All environmental issues from the Corrib gas field will be addressed by me when formal applications for approvals are received. This will be done with advice from environmental consultants employed by me in this connection and in consultation with all those concerned with the environmental impacts of the development.
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