Statement at the UNSC Briefing on Nord Stream gas leaks

Statement

Thank you, Mr President.

And thanks also to Assistant Secretary General Hanif for his briefing and to our other briefers.

Ireland is deeply concerned by the sudden and extensive gas leaks detected in the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines earlier this week.

The immediate priority must be to ensure maritime safety and avert the risk of a climate and ecological disaster. The potential for a massive and highly damaging emission event is a serious concern.

All the analysis to date indicates that these leaks are the result of deliberate acts of sabotage. We understand that at least two detonations occurred underwater, damaging the pipelines and causing major leaks of natural gas into the Baltic Sea.  The magnitude of the explosions was measured at 2.3 and 2.1 on the Richter Scale, corresponding to an explosive load in the region of several hundred kilos.  

The irresponsibility of such acts cannot be overstated and must deeply concern us all.

That such acts might occur now, in the midst of a global energy crisis and with winter fast approaching, makes it all the more appalling.

Sweden, Denmark and Germany have our full support in managing the consequences of this indefensible act. we stand ready to provide any assistance necessary. We also strongly support the on-going investigations in the most affected Member States to determine the full facts behind the leaks.

 Mr President,

Let us be clear: any deliberate disruption of European energy infrastructure is utterly unacceptable. Ireland, along with our EU partners, will ensure that it is met with a robust and united response.

Thank you.

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