The Government and Shell Ireland were seeking legal advice tonight after holding discussions on a proposal to halt the dismantling of a controversial gas pipeline in Co Mayo.
Work only began to take down an illegally welded section of the onshore Corrib gas pipeline this week, almost three months after Minister for Communications Marine and Natural Resources, Noel Dempsey, ordered it to be dismantled.
But Mr Dempsey said Shell and his department would meet again after discussing the proposal to defer the work until a new safety review of the pipeline is published in December.
The Pro-Erris Gas Group suggested Shell contribute a minimum of €250,000 to community projects in the area as an alternative to possibly wasting money dismantling the pipeline in advance of the result of the safety review.
Shell described the idea as interesting but said it was up to the Minister, who then agreed to discuss it with the company.
"I met with representatives of Shell E&P Ireland this morning to discuss the proposal made by the Pro Erris Gas Group on Monday last," Mr Dempsey said.
"Shell E&P Ireland have sought legal advice on the matter and will be in communication with officials from my Department once this advice has been received. The Department is also considering legal issues in respect of the proposal."
The construction of the Corrib gas pipeline sparked nationwide controversy when five Rossport men served almost 100 days in jail for breaching a court injunction preventing the obstruction of its development.
Mayo TD Dr Jerry Cowley and supporters of the Rossport Five criticised Mr Dempsey for considering deferring the dismantling work.
Dr Mark Garavan, spokesman for the Rossport Five and the Shell to Sea campaign, said mediation talks could not go ahead if the Minister did not ensure the dismantling order was complied with.
He said the credibility of the Minister and his department was at stake if they did not ensure the order dated July 31th was complied with.
PA