Ó Cuív welcomes national study into the effects of fracking

Fianna Fáil has welcomed the Government’s decision to ask the Environmental Protection Agency to conduct a study into the effects of fracking before licenses are issued.
 
The move follows pressure from Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and Leitrim Senator Paschal Mooney who raised serious concerns about the possible impact of fracking on the environment of the Lough Allen Basin.
 
Following today’s announcement, Deputy Ó Cuív said: “I am delighted that Minister Pat Rabbitte has rowed back on moves to issue fracking licenses for the Lough Allen Basin without any evidence of how the process will impact on the environment.
 
“The Lough Allen Basin is one Ireland’s most ecologically sensitive areas, with some of the most beautiful lakes and waterways in the country. I am not convinced that it is possible to extract the shale gas in this area without significant risk to the environment and to the public.  
 
“I have met local public representatives in Leitrim in September and they stressed to me the importance of preserving the unspoiled environment for both economic and social reasons. Much of the local employment is dependent on this and there is real concern that this method of shale gas extraction could cause serious and irrevocable damage.
 
“Rushing ahead with the issuing of licenses without fully understanding the effects of fracking would be a serious mistake that could put the entire Shannon waterways at risk.  Fianna Fáil has argued that it is not worth this risk and I am glad that Minister Rabbitte has now realised this.
 
“A number of international studies are underway into the effects of fracking. However it is important that we understand the particular impact in this country. I welcome the involvement of the Environmental Protection Agency in helping us understand this. I am urging them to carry out an extensive investigation considering all the local elements involved.”