Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh has broken party ranks in the European Parliament in a vote over energy projects.
The motion aimed to block a list of priority projects including the controversial Shannon LNG gas terminal.
Critics say it goes against climate ambitions and will see fracked gas imported from the US to Ireland.
In a statement to OceanFM News, Maria Walsh says she can’t support fracking due to the impact on the environment and believes ‘we need to invest in sustainable and renewable energy.’
The motion was rejected with Fine Gael’s Seán Kelly among those voting against.
Dublin Green MEP Ciarán Cuffe is praising Maria Walsh for taking a different view
