The Northern Ireland Assembly has taken action on the Petroleum Exploration and Licensing Bill to prohibit petroleum exploration and licensing.

Sinn Féin MLA Áine Murphy, who represents Fermanagh South Tyrone, addressed the assembly on the legislation. She described the ban as a vital measure to safeguard communities and the environment.

Murphy noted that rural areas, particularly in Fermanagh and Leitrim, experienced prolonged concerns over fracking impacts on the environment, health, and longstanding communities.

She stated that local residents campaigned actively to express their opposition.

Murphy characterised the matter as concerning environmental justice, public health, and community input on local developments.

She argued that permitting new fossil fuel activities amid the climate crisis would prove irresponsible and contradict efforts toward a just transition.

Murphy called for investments in renewable energy and green jobs to support both people and the planet.

She presented the bill as a significant advancement driven by community resolve against fracking.