Tourist sites ‘under threat’ from extraction of resources

THE extraction of underground natural resources could put major visitor attractions such as Doolin and Ailwee Caves in Clare at risk of collapse, an environmentalist has claimed.

Fracking — fracturing of underground shale seams to release gas — is being considered in areas of mainland Ireland, including parts of counties Clare, Kerry, Limerick and Cork.

Bob Wilson from Celt in Scariff has requested Natural Resources Minister Pat Rabbitte to ensure fracking did not take place in Clare because it can cause earth tremors.