FrackNo! Day of Action Organising Group

8th November 2011

On the 16th of November groups and individuals throughout Aotearoa will unite in demanding an immediate moratorium on hydraulic fracturing in a nationwide Day of Action Against Fracking.

In various places in the world, including the whole of France and South Africa, bans and moratoriums have already been placed on fracking, now it is New Zealand's turn. The proven negative effects of fracking to human health, animal health, and the environment are so destructive that Industry representative claims that 'it's different here in New Zealand' simply aren't good enough.

“We need an immediate moratorium on fracking,” says Wellington anti-fracking organiser Jessie Dennis. “The alternative is to risk having undrinkable water and air that makes us sick, as has happened in places overseas where fracking occurs.”

Although fracking is currently only known to be happening in Taranaki, with oil and gas permits for sale all over New Zealand, fracking could soon be happening near most New Zealanders, regardless of where they live.

"Oil and gas industry lobbyists in New Zealand are trying to minimise the serious consequences of a fracking company funded report from the UK last month that proved fracking has caused small earthquakes. But the industry admit their activities are messing with our geology and the longterm consequences of this new practice are completely unknown" said Gisborne District councillor Manu Caddie. "We need the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment to complete an independent inquiry into the practice in New Zealand and report to Parliament with recommendations."

The National Party is looking increasingly isolated on the matter and the Labour Party split with Napier candidate Stuart Nash strongly opposed and New Plymouth candidate Andrew Little coming out in favour provided it adequate safety measures are in place.

"It is deeply concerning to discover non-notified permits have been issued that could see hydraulic fracturing through the aquifers that feed Christchurch's pure drinking water. Fracking in a seismically unstable area like Canterbury without a full independent inquiry is incredibly irresponsible," said Christchurch Anglican Diocese Social Justice Enabler the Reverend Jolyon White.

The government must respect our right to a safe and clean environment. As more and more people become aware of the dangers of hydraulic fracturing, opposition to it in Aotearoa is growing, and that voice will only become stronger.

www.frackno.co.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media