Labour calls for robust inquiry into fracking

An investigation into the implications of fracking in New Zealand should be a priority when Parliament resumes, says Labour’s Environment spokesperson Grant Robertson.

The debate around fracking, a process which fractures rock to release oil and gas, is being sparked again today by a protest at a Hawkes Bay Regional Council meeting.

The meeting is to be attended by representatives of TAG Oil and the Apache Corporation who seek to explore three sites in Gisborne, Central Hawke’s Bay and the Tararua districts for drilling and fracking.

“While the proposal is in its early stages, community concern still deserves an attentive audience,” Grant Robertson said. “Labour is renewing its pre-election call for a review of fracking to be undertaken by either a strengthened Environmental Protection Agency or the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment.

“There is international evidence to suggest that the process of fracking can contaminate groundwater, which could have serious consequences for rural communities, dairy farmers and milk processors if it goes unmonitored in New Zealand.

“Local communities are right to be concerned about the potentially adverse effects of fracking, as there is little, if any, evidence to suggest the process is safe.

“Labour supports community efforts to give the issue increased attention. These are important strategic decisions for businesses and communities.

“Fracking has been suspended or banned in many parts of the world. It makes sense for New Zealand, with our clean, green image in mind, to prioritise an investigation into the effects of the process here on our own soil,” Grant Robertson said.