Unite the union is calling for an immediate halt to fracking in
Lancashire after it was revealed that there had been at least 19
tremors at the Quadrilla site since fracking restarted at the site
a fortnight ago. The latest and most severe tremor occurred
on Monday (29 October) measuring 1.0 on the richter scale. It was
so severe it was classified as a ‘red event’ resulting in fracking
being temporarily suspended. The fresh concerns about
fracking safety come at a time when...Request free trial
Unite the union is calling for an immediate halt to fracking in
Lancashire after it was revealed that there had been at least 19
tremors at the Quadrilla site since fracking restarted at the site
a fortnight ago.
The latest and most severe tremor occurred on Monday
(29 October) measuring 1.0 on the richter scale. It was so severe
it was classified as a ‘red event’ resulting in fracking being
temporarily suspended.
The fresh concerns about fracking safety come at a time
when the government is considering its response to a consultation
on fracking, which could result in local councillors being excluded
from deciding whether fracking can go ahead in their local
area.
The energy minister Clare Perry MP has also suggested
that as the industry ‘matures’ the requirement to stop drilling
when significant tremors occur, could be relaxed.
There is growing concern about the government’s
fracking policy and there will be a Westminster Hall debate
tomorrow afternoon (Wednesday 31 October) about the government’s
proposals.
Unite assistant general secretary Gail Cartmail
said: “The continued tremors being caused by
fracking in Lancashire must be terrifying for people living
locally.
“The government has put Quadrilla’s
financial interests above the safety concerns of local
residents.
“The fact that there are continual tremors
underlines that fracking is not safe and it needs to be halted
immediately.
“Proposals that councillors will be barred
from deciding if fracking can occur in their area are a direct
attack on local democracy.
“Suggestions by a Conservative minister
that mini earthquakes can be ignored in future, demonstrates that
the government is pandering to developers and ignoring legitimate
fears and concerns.”
“Recent history demonstrates that ignoring
community concerns can have tragic consequences. Elected
councillors are accountable and must be allowed to do their job
alongside community groups.”
