"We absolutely support the IESC investigating the proposed gas projects in the Beetaloo, but it must be allowed to do its job before any fracking is undertaken. It makes no sense for fracking companies to be able to start work before the scientific advice has been provided.
“Lock the Gate first wrote to the environment minister in February this year providing expert evidence that these gas fracking projects would have a significant impact on water resources, and this advice from the IESC could and should have been requested then.
“We’re calling for the Minister to put a 28-day timeline on receiving this advice and ensure it is received before the fracking of wells starts, and for her to guarantee that she will call these projects in under the water trigger if the expert advice raises concerns. The Minister has the power to call in these projects and stop the damage, and she should be using that power.
"This decision also reveals that NT fracking companies could be recklessly gambling with our water resources and with shareholders money if they now proceed in the full knowledge that more expert information is needed and they may be forced to halt work down the track."
ENDS