Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

On 11 May 2012, the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, published its preliminary research into the environmental aspects of shale gas extraction in the form of a small desk-based study carried out by the University of Aberdeen. Among the main findings of this review was the observation that the integrity of the well is vital for minimising potential impact in regard to fracking in terms of ground water contamination from leaks and well blow-outs, in which instances fracking fluid could potentially enter groundwater. The knowledge of local geology was identified as an important issue, as was the question of the carbon footprint arguments in regard to natural gas. In terms of environmental impacts, the report outlined potential impacts due to the large volumes of water used and related issues in regard to storage and disposal.

Arising from that report, it is the intention of my Department, in conjunction with the EPA, to undertake a second, more broadly-based study in order to identify best practice in respect of environmental protection for the use of hydraulic fracturing techniques. It is anticipated that this research will commence later in the year, following the engagement of the relevant experts. The conduct of the study is expected to take up to 12 months, which would give a potential publication date in late 2013.

See this speech in context