A vote for Fine Gael is a vote for fracking – Lynn Boylan MEP

Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan has slammed Fine Gael MEPs for their continued support for fracking. Speaking after a key vote on the issue in the European Parliament this week Boylan criticised them for their position on the dangerous gas extraction method.

‘It is disappointing but not surprising given their track record on the issue that once again, Fine Gael have demonstrated their clear support for fracking in Ireland. This time, they tried to remove wording which called for EU countries to not authorise any new fracking operations given the risks for the environment and the gaps in regulation which should cover such activities.

‘In spite of clear opposition in Ireland from civil society, farmers and local communities, Fine Gael want to stamp out any legitimate criticism of this risky gas extraction technique to pave the way for fracking in Ireland, no matter the cost. Their rejection of criticism of the practice in Europe paints a worrying picture of how they will deal with the issue if in government again.’