Setback in bid to retain controversial pipeline in Connemara

Galway Bay fm newsroom – A planning application for the retention of a controversial water pipeline in Connemara has been deemed invalid.
Marine Harvest sought to retain an abstraction facility and a freshwater delivery pipeline over three kilometres for a temporary period of six months.
However Galway County Council has deemed the application invalid stating an Appropriate Assessment would need to be carried out to comply with legislation.
A High Court injunction is also being sought by Friends of the Irish Environment to force the fish farm operator to remove the pipeline feeding fresh water from Loch an Oir to Galway Bay.
Marine Harvest says that the pipe, constructed in June, is essential for treating Ameobic Gill Disease in Salmon.
Pending a re-inspection of the site, further enforcement action will be taken by the local authority if necessary.