Irish Taxpayers May Face €85 Million Bill for Controversial Gas Plant, Documents Reveal
Confidential documents indicate potential costs for a liquefied natural gas terminal, even if it is not built, drawing criticism from opponents and actor Mark Ruffalo.
Irish taxpayers could be liable for up to €85 million for a controversial liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal, according to confidential documents. The potential cost has drawn criticism, with opponents suggesting that ordinary citizens will bear the financial burden for a project that may never be constructed.
The proposed terminal, intended as an 'emergency' reserve, has faced significant opposition. Critics argue that it will be used to import fracked gas from the United States. Hollywood actor Mark Ruffalo has publicly opposed the project, urging the Green Party in October 2024 to 'stop LNG' due to fracking concerns.
Representatives from the US gas industry reportedly met with Irish Energy Minister Darragh O’Brien and Gas Networks Ireland (GNI) earlier this month. During these meetings, they expressed a desire to supply Ireland with a continuous flow of fracked gas.
The project, slated for Cahiracon, Co. Clare, has sparked a fierce debate. Opponents have raised concerns about the environmental implications of fracking and the potential for imported fracked gas to supply the terminal.
The 'letter of comfort,' a confidential document, is central to understanding the financial commitments Ireland may face. This agreement appears to obligate taxpayers to substantial payments, regardless of whether the terminal becomes operational, raising questions about the government's financial prudence and transparency.