Dear editor:
Re: Editorial “Meet each other half way,” July 24.
This editorial presents many of the salient points involved in the issue of multi-stage, high pressure horizontal hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) occurring now in Alberta.
I wish to respond to the suggestion that both sides of the fracking “debate” should work together.
The situation is one of competing interests. The oil and gas industry seeks to make maximum profit in the shortest possible time with the least possible expense. Those concerned about the industry’s activities wish to live in a healthy environment with fresh air, clean water and productive land.
In a situation where these competing goals exist, the arbiter is, of course, our elected government, which is given the responsibility to see to the best interests of Albertans.
It might interest your readers to know that Albertans concerned about fracking have made every effort to “work together” with government and industry. From the beginning, Albertans have gone through official channels and responded to all opportunities for collaboration.
As an example, in 2012, the Government of Alberta asked residents to provide advice on the regulation of unconventional drilling (fracking). The suggestions, which many residents sent, bear a close resemblance to the recommendations made by the European Union to their member countries, which might consider permitting this technology to be used on their soil. Examples include:
- Thorough testing of air and groundwater quality in areas surrounding fracked wells before, during and after the technology is used, including complete transparency regarding chemicals involved in all processes;
- Provision of a performance bond by the companies involved, in case of untoward environmental effects;
- Continuous monitoring of fracking activities by government agencies throughout the process;
- Onus on industry to prove safety rather than on residents to prove harm;
- Stoppage of operations if earth tremors are reported.
In Alberta, these suggestions were not acted upon. Instead, ways were sought to “streamline” licensing of these wells; the right of residents to appeal decisions was taken away, and cutbacks were made to government departments involved in investigating claims of contamination, earthquakes and other harm. Inspection of fracked wells and gas flaring is not done unless residents make specific complaints.
In light of the lack of appropriate action, is it any wonder that Albertans have gone public with their ongoing concerns?
Nielle Hawkwood, Lochend area resident near Cochrane
