SINN Féin MEP Martina Anderson has welcomed the withdrawal of an application to carry out drilling associated with fracking on the north coast.
Speaking after the “When communities stand their grounds” section of an NGL Climate Conference in Brussels, Ms Anderson said:
“I welcome the fact that Rathlin energy have withdrawn an application to carry out drilling associated with fracking at Ballinlea.
“Fracking poses a serious threat to our environment, health and agriculture, not to mention our scenery and tourism. Given that the north coast is famous for its natural beauty, fracking in that area, or indeed any area of Ireland, would be ludicrous.
“Last February, along with party colleague Michelle Gildernew, I hosted the first anti-fracking conference in Ireland, in Fermanagh and here I was delighted to meet some of the anti-fracking activists from the Protect the North Coast group (PONC).
“These individuals, as well as my party colleague Daithí McKay, must be congratulated for their steadfast campaign and unwavering opposition, as it has resulted in this positive outcome.
“Sinn Féin will continue to work with anti-fracking groups across Ireland and do all in our power to ensure our island remains frack free.”