GAS NETWORKS Ireland have appointed Kildysart native John Ginnane as Community Liaison Officer for the controversial Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve (SGER) project.
Selected as the site in November for Ireland’s new strategic gas emergency reservice (SGER), the Cahercon facility is to create 300 jobs, a sixth of which will become full-time posts. The gas reserve will be delivered in the form of a Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU), which will be owned and operated on behalf of the State by Gas Networks Ireland.
Environmental groups have raised concerns with the development of the gas reserve while the move to appoint Kildysart’s John will help to diffuse any potential tensions with local organisations and residents.
Well-known in the locality, John has been actively involved in a wide range of community initiatives and committees over many years, including the Playground Committee, local GAA Club, Parish Council, the Board of Management at the National School and is the current Chairperson of the Kildysart Community Centre.
Professionally, John has over 35 years’ experience working with ESB at Moneypoint Generating Station, where he developed a strong reputation for reliability, clear communication, and working effectively with stakeholders. This experience, combined with his community insight, uniquely positions him for the role, according to Gas Networks Ireland.
As Community Liaison Officer, John will act as the main point of contact between Gas Networks Ireland and the local community. He will be regularly present in the area, meeting residents, attending local events and meetings, and ensuring that information about the SGER project is shared openly and transparently, while also bringing community feedback directly to the project team.
Of his new role, John said, “I’m pleased to take on this role and to work closely with the local community. Open communication and trust are very important to me, and I look forward to engaging with people, listening to their views, and ensuring their voices are heard throughout the project”. Gas Networks Ireland said the appointment reflects its commitment to meaningful engagement, transparency, and ongoing dialogue with the communities living closest to the proposed development.
Community members who wish to speak with John or have queries about the SGER project can contact him directly at: johnginnane@gasnetworks.ie and can find out more about the project by visiting Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve | Gas Networks Ireland.
