A chara, – I am dismayed at the decision of the UK government to rescind its temporary ban on shale gas extraction in Lancashire (World News, December 14th). The method used to extract these gas deposits – hydraulic fracturing or “fracking” – is a source of great controversy. Anecdotal evidence from the US suggests that migration of both methane and fracking chemicals has been detrimental to the health of people living in areas where “fracking” takes place (a claim strongly disputed by the gas industry). Damage to well-casings during the extraction of gas is a documented risk of shale-gas extraction and has resulted in leakage in a number of cases.
Shale gas deposits have been found in Co Leitrim and the company involved has expressed its opinion that fracking is the optimal method for extraction. Shale gas was previously considered too difficult and too costly to be considered commercially viable. Renewed interest in these deposits has much to do with the exhaustion of more accessible reserves elsewhere.
Setting aside the promise of economic riches, perhaps it is time we as a nation placed primacy on the preservation of our most valuable natural resources – our rural environment and natural and human heritage. In economic terms, far greater imagination and leadership is required in the pursuit of renewable energy opportunities, providing sustainable and long- term jobs and capital in a way that finite fossil fuels never can.
A decision on fracking in Leitrim is expected in February following publication of an EPA report. Perhaps this is one issue where Ireland can take the lead and not simply ape the actions of our nearest neighbour. Lancashire today, Leitrim tomorrow? Forget household and septic tank charges, this is one issue where Ireland should just say No. – Is mise,