Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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839. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the public health precautions that have been considered by his Department, with regards to hydraulic fracking exploration here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14316/15]

Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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At the outset, I can confirm that no exploration involving hydraulic fracking has been authorised in this jurisdiction. I can also confirm, as I have done on numerous occasions, that no decision will be made on any proposal for the use of hydraulic fracturing in exploration drilling as part of an unconventional gas exploration programme until there has been time to consider the outcome of the research programme directed at examining the potential environmental and human health impacts of hydraulic fracturing commissioned by the Environmental Protection Agency. The agency is co-ordinating a multi-agency transboundary programme of research on the potential impacts on the environment and human health from unconventional gas exploration and extraction projects and operations. Prior to commencing this project, the agency undertook a public consultation on the proposed Terms of Reference for the project and its response to issues raised, including in relation to health issues, and changes made to the Terms of Reference on foot of the consultation are set out at www.epa.ie/pubs/reports/research/ugeepublicconsultation/FINAL_Response_Document_to_PublicConsultation.pdf.

This research programme is being co-funded by the Environmental Protection Agency, my Department and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency. The research programme is managed by a steering committee comprising, among others, the Health Service Executive.

The research is being undertaken by a consortium of independent organisations comprising CDM Smith, British Geological Survey, University College Dublin, Ulster University, Queens University Belfast, AMEC Foster Wheeler and Philip Lee Solicitors. The project began in August 2014 and is scheduled to be complete in July 2016.

The programme has been designed to produce the scientific basis to assess the environmental and human health impacts associated with high volume hydraulic fracturing (fracking) in Ireland. The programme of research will assist regulators, both North and South, in making informed decisions about hydraulic fracking.