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Three UK workers destined for the Corrib Gas terminal in Bellanaboy test positive for Covid 19

By: 
Midwest Radio

Three UK-based contractors who travelled to Ireland to work at the Corrib Gas terminal at Bellanaboy in north Mayo have tested positive for Covid-19.

Vermilion Exploration & Production Ireland Limited, which operates the Corrib gas field, confirmed the positive case results this evening. 

The company says that the individuals, all of whom were asymptomatic were tested on the same day they arrived in Ireland and restricted their movements while awaiting results. One of the positive cases was returned earlier this week and two were confirmed today.

Midwest News sought clarification from the company over the quarantine practices underway by specialists workers at the gas terminal earlier today.

Vermillion says that the workers will now quarantine for the next 14 days and will be tested again before being allowed to work. Tracing of close contacts is currently underway by the HSE. Contract colleagues have been advised to self-isolate and private accommodation is being arranged.

Vermilion told Midwest News that that all personnel travelling from overseas are Covid 19 tested upon arrival and restrict their movements until a negative result is confirmed, after which they are free to travel to and from their accommodation to work. When not at work they are required to restrict their movements and follow public health advice.

It is understood that a 14-day quarantine upon arrival in Ireland is not required due to the ‘essential’ nature of the work at the Bellanaboy gas terminal.

Vermilion has engaged a number of specialist workers to support essential maintenance works at the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal.

The highly specialised nature of the work is such that it requires the company to bring in this expertise from abroad,” said Vermilion.

The company is now re-testing all contractors who have travelled to Erris in the past two weeks. Vermilion said as part of internal Covid-19 protocols they actively test all non-Irish Specialist Contractors when they arrive in the country.

“All contract workers need to return a negative Covid-19 test before they can enter our facilities and start work. All of these individuals are required to restrict their movements and follow public health guidance when not at work”.

The testing is carried out by an independent third-party company “based in Dublin.

Vermilion said the terminal continues to operate safely and there are no Covid-19 cases on the facility.

Posted Date: 
4 September 2020