Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

I inherited the decision made in the month prior to the election by the previous Government to issue licences. Part of the recitation of the licence is that the Department will have to consider but not necessarily grant an exploration licence, which is the second phase, as part of the application. Environmental issues must be dealt with and EPA guidelines, European directives and planning issues must be brought to bear in tandem with the international knowledge the agency will gather. However, no hydraulic fracturing is taking place in the State and no application for same is before the Department. When one is made, all the relevant processes will apply, including planning and consultation. The objectivity of the EPA is respected internationally and I cannot imagine a Government disagreeing with its advice on any environmental matter. If gas can be extracted without impacting on the environment and all the other issues are addressed, we have to consider that because of our energy deficit.

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