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.
ENDS