Press Release. Campaign to Save Tara,
4th. June 2007, 13:00.
4th. June 2007, 13:00.
Protesters Claim M3 Contractors
- are Blocking Public Roads
- are Blocking Public Roads
There was severe traffic disruption on
public roads adjacent to the proposed M3 motorway site
entrances at Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath on a number of days
last week. The disruption was particularly acute at
Cookstown, north-west of Dunshaughlin on Friday afternoon
when vehicles belonging to construction contractors were
abandoned for up to an hour and a half, straddling a
public road.In a tactic that appears to be deliberate, contractors were instructed by Spanish officials from the construction conglomerate SIAC/Ferrovial, who were awarded the contract to build and operate the proposed tolled motorway through the Tara/Skryne Valley, to switch off their engines and abandon their vehicles as soon as protesters appeared on the roadside adjacent to the site-access points.
Protesters claim that this represents a significant escalation of tensions in a dispute that looks like it will be bitterly fought throughout the summer. Michael Canney, from the Campaign to Save Tara, who accompanied the protesters on Friday afternoon said, "These are cynical tactics designed to stir up resentment against peaceful protesters. When the road was blocked by construction vehicles the word goes out to innocent motorists that it is the protesters that are causing the delay. This in turn leads to justifiable anger amongst the general public. Thankfully, when people realize what is really going on, they direct there anger at the appropriate place - those directing this outrageous and Machiavellian strategy".
After delays of up to an hour and a half, Gardai from Ashbourne Station arrived and the construction vehicles were immediately moved off the road. Gardai at the scene were made aware of the circumstances of the disruption, and official complaints are to be lodged at Ashbourne Garda Station this week.
ENDS
Media queries:
Dr. Muireann Ní Bhrolcháin
Tel: 087-9249510
Michael Canney
Tel: 086-8528200
E-Mail: info@savetara.com
Web site: http://www.savetara.com