"I was asked to sit on a panel for CBM and offer an opinion on shale gas casing (enclosure protecting bored hole in simple terms) production methods. I really can't see Europe developing shale gas fast unless food grade stainless steel or alloy casing structures (EU directive 2006/42/AC) insulate the wellhead from the enclosed production products like shale gas itself against groundwater. Regulations are lower in some states (Tx, Pa, Ok, W. Va) and it is critical for sustainable practices that some semblance be brought to the methods employed to encourage safer production. Some challenges certainly remain and operators need to be aware of them for all parties and stakeholders concerned. Should they employ good production practices, a 'game changer' will happen. Watch further industry positioning in this sector as it is here to stay."

Eoin Treacy's view Thank you for this informed commentary straight from the proverbial coalface. I agree that the shale gas story is here to stay and will need to be developed responsibly if it is to avoid serious resistance from citizens worried about the safety of the water table.