Four years ago, Hollywood actor Mark Ruffalo supported the Green Party’s stance against fracking. However, this week he criticized the party for allowing strategic gas storage in legislation, something he deemed “terrible.” The legislation approved a floating liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage facility in Ireland, addressing the country’s energy supply vulnerabilities.
Despite opposition and Ruffalo’s intervention, Green Party members voted in favor of the legislation. The issue stems from a High Court decision overturning the refusal for a commercial LNG storage facility in Kerry. Environmental groups are concerned that this change in the law may pave the way for the controversial Shannon project by New Fortress, potentially using fracked gas.
The decision raises questions about government policy and environmental commitments, as the Coalition’s actions seem contradictory. With Ireland’s gas supplies becoming increasingly reliant on imports, the debate surrounding gas storage facilities and their environmental impact will continue to be a key issue in the years ahead.