B.C.'s two independent MLAs have called for Premier Christy Clark to investigate the use of hydraulic fracturing.
The technique is used to extract natural gas in northeast B.C., and has been criticized as having adverse environmental impacts.
The techniques used liquids pumped into drill holes at high pressure to open up fissures in subterranean rock to extract the gas.
"The rapid expansion of this industry, and the potential for it to continue to expand with the aid of incremental government assistance, has led to serious public policy questions being raised by more and more individuals and organizations," said Bob Simpson, the Independent MLA for Cariboo North, who lives in Quesnel.
He joined with Vicki Huntington, the Independent MLA for Delta South, in calling for the investigation.
The two MLAs noted a range of public concerns including economists asking if the province is developing gas resources at the wrong time in the market cycle. Natural gas prices are depressed now.
Other concerns cited by the two MLAs include Peace Region residents and the Northern Health Authority calling for a public inquiry into the health and safety implications of oil and gas development.
Also on their list of concerns is the amount of fresh water used in hydraulic fracturing operations and the disposal of the large amounts of toxic wastewater subsequently produced, as well as additional carbon emissions.
The two MLAs noted that other jurisdictions such as Quebec and New York State have taken a more precautionary approach to unconventional gas developments.
The two MLAs have received support from more than one dozen organizations, including environmental groups, First Nations and citizen groups.
