Pat Rabbitte disrupted at energy conference

dublin | environment | news report

Friday August 31, 2012 00:11

by C - RSC

This morning members of Rossport Solidarity Camp disrupted Pat Rabbitte while he spoke at a conference at the Science Gallery in Dublin entitled "The Future of Energy: Dreams and Responsibilities"[1]

Banners reading "Shell's Pet Rabbit" and "Corrib is not a Dream - It's a Nightmare" were held up just as Pat Rabbitte began speaking. After the banners were forcibly removed Pat Rabbitte was challenged on ignoring his responsibilities to the community in Mayo, that are facing a daily Shell occupation.[2]

Pat Rabbitte was also challenged on his policy of continuing the giveaway of Irish oil and gas rights. In particular, on his issuing of exploration licences, just as an Oireachtas Committee were carrying out a review of Irish oil and gas terms and Providence Resources were beginning the biggest ever oil & gas drilling campaign in Ireland.[3]

Pat Rabbitte attempted to dismiss the peaceful protest by referring to the campaigners as "these people here".

Speaking at the conference local Mayo woman Mary Walsh stated "I take issue with Pat Rabbitte dismissing us, citizens as 'these people here', when he's addressing a conference organised by Notre Dame University and being addressed by Exxon Mobil. In a way, it sums up his attitude, ignore any concerns from our community in Mayo or other Irish citizens, while telling Shell and other oil companies exactly what they want to hear".

After a short time the campaigners left the conference. This is the second time in less than a week that Pat Rabbitte has been challenged on the oil and gas giveaway.[4]

[1] The Future of Energy: Dreams and Responsibilities
http://engineering.nd.edu/futureofenergy

[2] Occupation - Local resident Betty Schult
http://www.shelltosea.com/content/occupation-local-resi...chult

[3] News release: Rabbitte shows ‘contempt for democracy’ by issuing licensing options
http://www.shelltosea.com/content/news-release-rabbitte...0%98c...

[4] Arrest at Rabbitte lunch - Sunday Times
http://www.shelltosea.com/content/arrest-rabbitte-lunch