Eight men have been arrested in the sea off Glengad beach in Co Mayo during an attempt to stop work associated with the controversial Corrib gas pipeline.
Around 15 protesters in wetsuits entered the water shortly after 10am and temporarily halted dredging work. They were swimming, in kayaks and on surfboards.
Members of the Garda Water Unit arrested five people on the water under the Public Order Act at around 11.15am. A further three people were arrested at 1.30 pm.
All eight were taken to Belmullet Garda station. They were freed without charge this evening.
Protesters have vowed to continue with their action until work on the pipeline stops.
A statement from Shell E&P Ireland this afternoon said that while the company recoginsed people’s right to protest it urged members of the public to take sensible health and safety precautions in the vicinity of the dredging vehicles.
“The area in which these activities are taking place is not a suitable place for water sports activity due to strong currents and shifting sands. Safety, including safety of workers on the site, members of the local community and any other members of the public, is the first priority of the company at all times."
