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

I have not been briefed on that aspect, but I thank the Deputy for bringing it to my attention. However, if an exploration licence was sought which involved fracking, there would have to be an environmental impact statement and full planning permission required, starting with the local authority and moving up to An Bord Pleanála. There is no question about this. The public will be fully consulted at every stage of the planning process.

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