Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Following a request from the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to conduct research into the environmental implications of hydraulic fracturing in May 2012, the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, published its preliminary high level research into the environmental aspects of shale gas extraction in the form of a small desk based study, which was carried out by the University of Aberdeen. This study found that further research should be undertaken. The terms of reference for more extensive research is being drawn up by a steering group, including representatives from the EPA and Department. The objectives of this further research are to establish what is best practice with respect to hydraulic fracturing, identify all possible environmental risks and ascertain if these risks are manageable.

It is anticipated that following the engagement of the relevant experts, the conduct of the study, including consultation with relevant parties and taking account of relevant international studies, could take in excess of 12 months, leading to a potential publication date in 2014. Until there has been time to consider the second stage of the EPA research, I confirm the use of hydraulic fracturing in exploration drilling will not be authorised. However, should an application to engage in hydraulic fracking be received in future, I also confirm that such an application will be subject to environmental impact assessment, including full public consultation.

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