Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I will make some comments rather than pose questions. The main concern about fracking relates to the possibility of groundwater being contaminated. Given our heavy dependence on groundwater, like Deputy Michael Colreavy, I wonder why the possibility of permitting hydraulic fracturing is even being considered. The evidence from other countries suggests different jurisdictions take different approaches. The United Kingdom appears to have an open mind on the process; France has closed down the process, while Germany and Poland are exploring the possibility of allowing fracking. The intelligence, as it were, from North America and Australia suggests the approach taken in these countries is different. Unlike Australia and the United States, however, Ireland's centres of population are close together and our dependency on groundwater is great. Fracking is much easier to carry out in the middle of Australia where the nearest centre of population may be five hours away by air than it would be in Ireland. Given that the process is in its infancy, we should consider permitting it and await information on the practice in other countries before allowing fracking to commence here.