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

On the other side of the argument is the fact that fracking or unconventional gas extraction has absolutely transformed the American economy and that the country has become an exporter, rather than an importer, of energy. The fundamental question concerns what process, if any, the Government is allowing. The answer is absolutely none. A decision was made in the February before we took office by the previous Administration which granted three companies onshore licensing options. Notwithstanding the fact that these options were granted by the Fianna Fáil Government, it did not allow the companies to commence fracking which is not allowed in this country.

The scientific survey is being conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency. Until it is finalised and to hand, there is absolutely no way we will consider any new application or fracking will commence. I reject any implication to the contrary, although perhaps the Deputy did not intend to imply that there was. We are not in favour of any activity that would breach significant environmental protections that we need or any European Union environmental law or legislation. There is an advice note from the European Union on fracking. I reassure everyone that until the report is to hand, there will be no step forward in any respect. When it is to hand, it will be fully and properly debated in the House.

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