Madam, - The deployment of the warship LE Orla in Broadhaven Bay as part of the State's security provision for the Corrib gas project is a gross overreaction which will only escalate tensions and costs.
Protesters have been using canoes to deliver messages to the pipe-laying ship and some were preparing to swim out in wetsuits to the ship, but that does not warrant the deployment of a warship in the bay. What damage these canoeists or swimmers can do to the 1,000-foot vessel is beyond my comprehension.
The Garda has its own speed-boats and sub-aqua division and can deal with any breaches of the law. The stationing of LE Orla in the bay is a misuse of the navy and a completely disproportionate reaction. It is like using a hammer to swat a fly. The involvement of the military in any "policing" matter should be a last resort.
Is the next step for the Government to place tanks on the Hill of Tara? - Yours, etc,
Cllr KEITH MARTIN,
Westport Town Council,
Westport,
Co Mayo.