The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Denis Naughten, has been slammed for attempting to "filibuster" proposed legislation to ban fracking in Ireland.

Fianna Fáil TD Timmy Dooley said the Minister should be doing everything he can to end fracking once and for all.

Mr Dooley said: "We will oppose any attempt to delay, defer or dilute the legislation as currently drafted.

"Fracking is not necessary in Ireland, and would, if allowed, cause considerable environmental damage to rural communities up and down the country.

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"The Government's attempts to defer and delay this important piece of legislation smacks of old politics. Their amendment is classic, old school politics, and people will see it for what it is.

"We cannot risk our environment for the sake of short term benefit. Future generations of Irish people would not thank us."

Sinn Féin TD Martin Kenny described the government's amendment to the bill as a "sinister and deceitful development".

He said: "The government amendment to this bill is a sinister and deceitful development which does not ban fracking and introduces reports, consultations and other delaying tactics before a second reading, not until the middle of next year.

"We don't need any more reports or consultation on fracking when the most reputable bodies and scientists have proven its devastating effects on the environment. This is something that we do not want here and as soon as possible Sinn Féin will introduce legislation to ban it."

(BL/LM)