Gas pipeline movie to hit cinema screens

The story of the controversial Corrib Gas project told through the eyes of locals is expected to reach a world audience thanks to a groundbreaking new documentary.

'The Pipe' follows four protesters as they wage a battle against the Co Mayo refinery through both the courts and the planning process, balanced by the opinions of two locals in favour of the scheme.

It is among several Irish features either in production or ready to hit cinema screens in 2010, including movies with hit stars Colin Farrell, Cillian Murphy and Brendan Gleeson.

Director Risteard O’Domhnaill, 30, said he hopes the feature will be aired at next year’s Galway and Toronto film festivals, before hitting Irish and European television screens.

“We won’t know really until we get it on to the film festivals what kind of reaction it will get,” Mr O’Domhnaill, a freelance news cameraman said.

“It’s a very powerful story and it’s a very grand story, that may really suit cinema.”

The documentary, supported by the Irish Film Board, focuses on four protesters including fisherman Pat O’Donnell whose boat was sunk last June in Broadhaven Bay.

It also follows farmers Mary and Willy Corduff, resident Monica Muller who fought a legal battle against the refinery and Maura Harrington.

But opinions are also aired by two local men in favour of the project to demonstrate that not all residents are opposed to the Shell scheme.

Mr O’Domhnaill said he felt compelled to make the documentary, which began in October 2006, after spending time covering the news story.

“It’s examining the people who have objected from the start in detail,” he said.

“Some people come out well and some people don’t. It’s a point of view documentary, but my approach is honest.”