Menu
14/11/2011
Sinn Fein Raises 'Fracking' Concerns
The European Commission (EC) has been lobbied over constituency concerns surrounding the use of the controversial gas extraction technique called hydraulic fracturing or 'fracking' as it is more commonly known.
Sinn Fein MEP, Bairbre de Brún has written to the EC after four new licenses were granted allowing gas and oil companies exploratory fracking rights in NI.
Ms de Brún said: "Given the major environmental impacts fracking could potentially have on the local area it is imperative that Environmental Impact Assessments are taken before exploration commences and I have written to the Commission in this regard."
"In America, the use of fracking has been reported as the cause of heavy contamination of drinking water with dangerous gases and chemicals which is clearly a serious concern for public safety and agriculture for any possible projects in Ireland.
"Furthermore, it has been stated by seismologist experts that two earthquakes which happened earlier this year in the northwest of England were connected to the fracking exploration which had begun in the area.
"It is extremely worrying that governments are permitting potentially very dangerous and environmentally unsound gas exploration to take place without full environmental impact assessments and at a time when we should be investing our efforts in searching for clean, safe and renewable energy sources."
(CD/BMcC)
Sinn Fein MEP, Bairbre de Brún has written to the EC after four new licenses were granted allowing gas and oil companies exploratory fracking rights in NI.
Ms de Brún said: "Given the major environmental impacts fracking could potentially have on the local area it is imperative that Environmental Impact Assessments are taken before exploration commences and I have written to the Commission in this regard."
"In America, the use of fracking has been reported as the cause of heavy contamination of drinking water with dangerous gases and chemicals which is clearly a serious concern for public safety and agriculture for any possible projects in Ireland.
"Furthermore, it has been stated by seismologist experts that two earthquakes which happened earlier this year in the northwest of England were connected to the fracking exploration which had begun in the area.
"It is extremely worrying that governments are permitting potentially very dangerous and environmentally unsound gas exploration to take place without full environmental impact assessments and at a time when we should be investing our efforts in searching for clean, safe and renewable energy sources."
(CD/BMcC)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
09 May 2019
Concerns Raised Over Fracking Proposal
Representatives from several of Northern Ireland's political parties have expressed concern over a renewed proposal for a fracking licence in County Fermanagh.
Concerns Raised Over Fracking Proposal
Representatives from several of Northern Ireland's political parties have expressed concern over a renewed proposal for a fracking licence in County Fermanagh.
14 November 2024
Minister Murphy Raises Economic Concerns in London
Economy Minister Conor Murphy today raised a number of key economic issues with British Government Ministers during a visit to London.
Minister Murphy Raises Economic Concerns in London
Economy Minister Conor Murphy today raised a number of key economic issues with British Government Ministers during a visit to London.
17 April 2012
Fracking 'Safe' Says Report
Fracking for oil and gas is 'safe', so says an independent report published today. The controversial process of drilling for gas and oil has come under attack following the acknowledgment that it can cause mini-earthquakes or tremors but a government-commissioned report has given it a green light.
Fracking 'Safe' Says Report
Fracking for oil and gas is 'safe', so says an independent report published today. The controversial process of drilling for gas and oil has come under attack following the acknowledgment that it can cause mini-earthquakes or tremors but a government-commissioned report has given it a green light.
22 November 2024
Alliance 'Deeply Concerned' Over Pace Of HIA Redress Scheme
The Alliance Party has raised concerns over the rate of progress on the redress scheme for Historical Institutional Abuse of children. The party's Executive Office spokesperson, Paula Bradshaw MLA, has called on the First and deputy First Minister (FMdFM) must meet victims and survivors urgently over memorialisation and other issues.
Alliance 'Deeply Concerned' Over Pace Of HIA Redress Scheme
The Alliance Party has raised concerns over the rate of progress on the redress scheme for Historical Institutional Abuse of children. The party's Executive Office spokesperson, Paula Bradshaw MLA, has called on the First and deputy First Minister (FMdFM) must meet victims and survivors urgently over memorialisation and other issues.
12 August 2014
Environment Minister Rejects Fracking Application
Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has rejected an application by Australian mining company Tamboran to drill into Cleggan Quarry at Belcoo in County Fermanagh, as part of an exploration into the potential for fracking at the site.
Environment Minister Rejects Fracking Application
Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has rejected an application by Australian mining company Tamboran to drill into Cleggan Quarry at Belcoo in County Fermanagh, as part of an exploration into the potential for fracking at the site.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
