WATCH: Taoiseach reacts to decision to refuse permission for €650m LNG terminal

AN BORD Pleanála has refused permission for the proposed development of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal and energy park on the Shannon Estuary.

Shannon LNG had been seeking permission for the €650m development, including a 600 megawatt power plant and LNG terminal at the site near Tarbert in North Kerry.

In the decision, which was published this Friday, An Bord Pleanála said it would be inappropriate to permit or proceed with the development of any LNG terminals in Ireland pending the review of energy supply,

The decision, it added, is based on Government policy on the importation of fracked gas.

"Having regard to the nature and form of the proposed development which constitutes an overall integrated facility incorporating an LNG terminal and with a clear focus on the use of LNG as the primary fuel source for related elements such as the proposed power station, it is considered that the development at this time would be contrary to current government policy"" reads the decision.

Speaking at the Fine Gael think-in, which is taking place in Limerick, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he would like to consider the decision but that it will come as a disappointment to many in North Kerry (watch video above) who had been looking forward to significant investment in the local area.