Serious concerns have been raised over the prospect of fracking in Ireland.

A bill to ban the process has been brought before by Sinn Féin Deputies Martin Kenny and Brian Stanley.

The Petroleum and Other Minerals Development (Amendment) Bill 2016 will seek to ban unconventional gas exploration and extraction.

Mr Kenny TD said: "It is a privilege to carry on the work of my predecessor Michael Colreavy who has campaigned tirelessly to ensure that hydraulic fracturing does not gain a foothold in Ireland.

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"This bill aims to introduce a complete ban on unconventional methods of gas exploration and extraction, namely the process of fracking.

"The prospect of fracking in Ireland is a matter of grave concern that poses dangerous risks to the environment and public health."

Mr Stanley TD said: "It is crucial for Ireland to increase its development of renewable energy sources in order to secure future energy sources and reduce carbon emissions.

"Renewable sources of energy will become increasingly important for our energy security in the coming years."

(CD)