Groundswell

‘I didn’t realise I was living in one of the most promising gas fields in Europe’, says director Johnny Gogan at the outset of his campaigning, David and Goliath-style film about the impact of fracking on his North Leitrim community. Fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, is a process which involves the drilling into underground shale rock before a high-pressure mixture of water and chemicals is introduced to shatter the rock, and release the natural gas reserves trapped inside. Fracking carries a high risk of polluting the surrounding water table and destroying areas of biodiversity and natural beauty. Gogan’s powerful film reveals how the fracking industry has been developing its interests in Ireland for many years.