Media release – Frack Free Tas, 15 December 2024
Open letter to all members of the Tasmanian parliament – calling for a permanent ban on fracking
Today, the grassroots group, Frack Free Tas inc. delivered an open letter to all members of the Tasmanian parliament (upper and lower houses). This letter is co-signed by several groups and doctors that recognise that hydraulic fracturing (aka fracking) is not a suitable practice in our state and that a permanent ban on fracking is necessary to ensure it cannot be used in the island state.
The intention with this open letter is that all parties and independents can recognise that with the current fracking moratorium expiring in March 2025, there is a golden opportunity to back our farmers, support a sustainable economy and to guard the health of our families.
“Enacting a legislated permanent ban like those in force in Victoria and many jurisdictions around the world is a proactive step to treasure our landscapes and water that underpin brand Tasmania” said Shaun Thurstans, President of Frack Free Tas.
The open letter touches on the risks of contamination, the documented health impacts and the boom-bust nature of this industry.
“Tasmania can learn the lessons from elsewhere and proactively treasure our natural advantages that give us access to premium markets” continues Shaun Thurstans.
Frack Free Tas thanks the groups and doctors who have lent their support for this letter and hope that the members of parliament can see this is an opportunity to make a real proactive action towards protecting what is precious in Tasmania, regardless of political persuasion.
