Northern Ireland

Campaigners say `no drilling' in west Belfast

Protesters outside the Department for the Economy. Picture by Hugh Russell
Protesters outside the Department for the Economy. Picture by Hugh Russell Protesters outside the Department for the Economy. Picture by Hugh Russell

ENVIRONMENTAL campaigners opposed to drilling for petroleum have protested outside the Department for the Economy.

The department has received an application for a petroleum licence "covering a substantial area to the west, south and east of Lough Neagh".

It is also considering a separate application covering the Lough Erne area of Co Fermanagh.

Public consultation on the proposed bids is due to end today.

The Lough Neagh application covers parts of five different council areas and takes in parts of north and west Belfast.

People Before Profit assembly member Gerry Carroll was among those who took part in a protest yesterday.

"West Belfast residents have voiced their objection to the application," he said.

"We need to make our message loud and clear - hands off, no drilling in our community."