Ennis forum highlights growing concerns

Last Sunday, Glór hosted the latest event organised by Clare Fracking Concerned. This group was set up last year to raise awareness and to inform the public about hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”), a controversial method of exploiting onshore shale gas reserves.

Lorna Siggins, Western correspondent with the Irish Times chaired the evening, which started with a presentation by NUIG hydrogeologist Tiernan Henry.
He provided an in-depth explanation of hydraulic fracturing, the complexity of the method and the possible negative outcomes that can occur when this method is used. In particular, he emphasised the potentially catastrophic results of fracking if it is not carried out correctly. Water contamination seemed to be his biggest concern, as it was for audience member, Regina O’Dea from Carron.
“It is not fair on my seven-year-old to take this risk. Everyone young and old has the right to clean, safe drinking water,” Ms O’Dea commented.
Lorna Siggins then opened the debate to the floor, with contributions from the discussion panel, which was made up of representatives from the farming, tourism, and business sectors, as well as representatives from Clare Fracking Concerned. Enegi Oil, the company that has been granted a licensing option to study the shale gas reserves in Clare with an eye to future exploration, declined an invitation to participate in the event.
The event was well-attended by people from all parts of Clare, from Loop Head to Killaloe. TDs Pat Breen and Joe Carey attended the event and listened to Tiernan Henry’s presentation.
Members of the public showed their support for Clare Fracking Concerned by signing petitions in favour of a ban on fracking in Ireland, by sending Taoiseach Enda Kenny letters in support of keeping Ireland “Guaranteed Fracking Free”, and by purchasing the “Keep Ireland Fracking Free” car window stickers that are being sold as a fundraiser for Clare Fracking Concerned. Anyone who wishes to support the group’s future efforts to keep Ireland fracking free can contact clarefrack@gmail.com.