Fracking testimony underway at Yukon Legislature

A select committee of the Yukon legislature is hearing from experts in the field of hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking."

The controversial technique has been the subject of debate and dissension in the Yukon for months.

The committee was formed to gather information on the risks and the benefits of fracking and to make recommendations to the Yukon legislature about how the practice should be regulated in the territory.

OnFriday and Saturday the committee will hear evidence from invited delegates, including researchers, regulators, opponents and proponents of fracking.

The National Energy Board has approved, monitored and inspected hundreds of fracking operations over the past decades, as has the B.C. Oil and Gas Commission.

The Fort Nelson First Nation has fought against and stopped some operations within its traditional territories.

EFLOIndustries and Northern Cross Petroleum will both make their case for proposed fracking operations in the Yukon, while Canadian researchers will update the committee on the latest scientific studies.

The sessions are being held in the Yukon legislature assembly, and are open to the public.They run from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT.