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Environment and Water | August 31, 2016

Kealy – Onshore gas moratorium

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy MP says the announcement to permanently ban all onshore unconventional gas in Victoria is not a new approach.

“The Government's position on unconventional fracking and CSG follows The Nationals’ position announced in October last year,” Ms Kealy said.

“The Nationals have always prioritised our land and water resources and have always stood side-by-side with our farmers, while the previous Labor Government issued 23 fracking permits and 73 exploration permits.

“In Government, the National-Liberal Coalition introduced the moratorium on fracking and legislated to ban the use of BTEX chemicals.

“I have heard first hand from many residents in my electorate who are very concerned about what impact onshore unconventional gas would have on the local environment, water reserves and in particular the prime agricultural land - they do not want to see fracking in our area.

"Victoria’s agricultural industries are the lifeblood of our rural communities and are too valuable to jeopardise.

“I look forward to seeing the details of the Government’s proposed legislation when it is released,” she said.