Good news – it’s official!
The EPA Research Study on Fracking is now stopped. This study was targeted by the campaign against fracking as research showed the study was compromised – it was being led by companies with huge vested interests in the oil and gas industry. A statement from the Department (DCENR) yesterday (2nd) confirmed that the study has been stopped after its first phase, which included an overall look at regulations and legislation governing fracking. Phase 2, on-the-ground studies in Leitrim and Fermanagh which would have included some drilling, will not proceed and a report of Phase 1 will be published in Q3 of this year.
“GEAI is delighted with this news. Before Christmas, Minister Joe McHugh, who has responsibility for Natural Resources, said that he had requested an interim report from the EPA. It is great news that this has been confirmed. Basically, the study is stalled and, moreover, it is unlikely to proceed in the future – we understand that the contract with the lead research contractor – CDM Smith – finishes in August this year, two years from signing.
However, the campaign does not end. Now we will push for legislation that will ensure that fracking is never introduced into Ireland – the last hurdle. We are launching the “SIGN THE PLEDGE” campaign on Friday – asking all candidates to sign a pledge to support legislation to ban fracking in Ireland permanently.”
Fantastic news. Congratulations to all concerned. I traveled from my home in loop Head (under threat of fracking) and stood with you in the pouring rain outside the Dáil on the day and attended the meeting later with TDs etc inside the edifice. All candidates canvasing my house will be asked for a commitment to reject any plans to introduce fracking on the island of Ireland. I will have a statement ready and ask for their signatures on the basis of ‘no signature – no vote’ Unfortunately I couldn’t finish your statement just now because alone of all emails received… Read more »
Thank you, Jim and we are glad you support this initiative. Could you check again if you can see page?
[…] http://goodenergiesalliance.com/2016/02/03/the-stop-the-study-campaign-has-stopped-the-study/ […]
Congratulations to all anti-fracking activists from Poland, very good news!
Thank you! Good luck to you also with your actions in Poland!
Congratulations from a fracktivists in the US!
Thank you, Briget!
I believe the concern in the CDM Smith report about the potential deleterous impact groundwater aquifer with hydrocarbons is the main concern the lack of basline study in this regard is the calling card. This was pointed out by myself in the submissions from the public two years back but the EPA never mentioned this. Hence this development!!!