The Northern Ireland Oil Federation has met European Commission officials to complain about the use of Government funds to help Bord Gβis ╔ireann extend a natural gas pipeline into the North. Bord Gβis proposes to extend the pipeline from Co Meath to Belfast, Derry and Donegal and the Government and the Northern authorities have agreed to help fund the extension.

Mr David Blevings, the executive director of the Northern Ireland Oil Federation, described the meeting with officials from the Energy directorate general as positive.