Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am pleased the Minister is in the Chamber. I know this is not his swan-song because he is probably going on to greater things, but he can look back at the past three and a half years of great success. The Minister was present to hear the contributions by Senators Whelan and Landy. Senator Whelan spoke with such vigour, courage and concern about the experiences he has had. Senator Landy spoke about his experience with the Hanrahan farm in his area. It is a reminder of what those who are close to these things have to do and also of their concern about the EPA.
I wish to raise hydraulic fracturing, or fracking as it is called and the use of shale gas. This issue has a potential interplay with the quality of water, something the EPA will continue to monitor alongside Irish Water. What is the EPA doing in this regard? Is it conducting studies on the environmental impact of fracking? I would like to see it do more so that we can come to a decision on whether we go ahead with fracking. As in many other areas, the Government simply commissions studies and then nothing is done. Correct me if I am wrong but given the political implications of fracking, it is clear that some politicians are even afraid to say the word, "fracking". I am not for or against it per sebut I believe we should have a debate and a decision should be made on that basis. Look at the fact that other countries are racing ahead in this area. It has the potential to create perhaps up to 100,000 jobs and drastically reduce our reliance on foreign energy. The use of fracking in the United States has drastically reduced energy bills for businesses and for households. If that was replicated here it would be a massive boost for our economy.
We have not had a discussion on fracking, so I urge the Minister to do something about it. The EU Energy Commissioner - I do not know what job the Minister will have if he goes to Europe - was quoted last year as saying that energy Ministers recognise that the boom in shale gas extraction in the United States is a game-changer, which has had knock-on effects in all areas of energy. He said that EU member states are open to shale gas and the European Commission will accompany this process by overseeing the environmental concerns through water legislation. I believe that this is something that needs to be done. If the Minister goes to Europe I hope he finds that whatever job he has, he will be able to influence this area because the answer to future challenges in regard to energy rests with us.