INEOS Shale commission former MP Natascha Engel
- INEOS believes the former MP offers a unique perspective on the local communities it is asking to host it
- She has been commissioned to write a booklet for INEOS which will better explain shale exploration and development
- Tom Pickering, Operations Director at INEOS Shale said: “We are delighted that Natascha has agreed to help us better understand the needs of households close to our operations.”
INEOS has today announced that it has commissioned former MP for North East Derbyshire Natascha Engel to write an information booklet on shale gas exploration.
The booklet will be made available to the local community and will explain shale exploration and development. Most importantly it will try to explain the issue as part of the wider context about combating climate change, our energy needs, and the positive impact on jobs, training, industry and community benefits.
Natascha Engel said: “I saw first-hand what the impacts are on small communities when they hear about a shale gas application near them – even when it’s only for exploratory drilling. What people want is information. They want to know how it will affect them and they want reassurance that it is safe. I hope that this booklet will provide some of those certainties.”
She added: “Most of all I hope that this will allow INEOS to work constructively with communities so that local people gain the most in terms of the jobs and apprenticeships that this industry could bring – something I have campaigned on for most of my adult life.”
Tom Pickering, Operations Director at INEOS Shale said: “Natascha will give us a better insight into the needs and concerns of residents. As a former Labour MP and trade unionist, Natascha has always made the case for good jobs, as well as health and safety. At the same time, Natascha is well placed to give us a full understanding of local issues and help us to continue to be an open and inclusive organisation.”
ENDS