Industry says research will prove fracking safe in Yukon

The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers says it welcomes more research on hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, in Yukon because that would help the territory's fledgling gas industry.

Aaron Miller, the northern Canada manager for the association, is commenting on recommendations from a Yukon legislative committee that calls for more research into the effects of fracking on air, land, water and people.

"There's lots of misinformation, and a bit of fear-mongering at times floating out there," Miller says.

"But again, we're very confident that if the government takes its time, looks at the facts, sound science and track records of more mature jurisdictions, it'll become pretty clear that this has and can be done safely," he says.

Miller says social acceptance is "absolutely critical" before fracking occurs and points to the Sahtu region of the Northwest Territories where he says fracking has gone ahead with full First Nation approval.

He says ultimately it's up to all Yukoners, not just the government, to decide whether they want a gas industry.

"There's no question there is a lot of resource potential," Miller says. "There's no question the potential is pretty intriguing."