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Oil and Gas Drilling (Cardigan Bay)

I wish to present a petition with the signatures of more than 2,000 individuals from my constituency and across west Wales. The petition, organised by the Save Our Seas group in Ceredigion, urges the Government not to grant licences for oil and gas exploration or drilling in the Irish sea, and specifically in that part of Cardigan bay designated a special area of conservation under the EU habitats directive, on the ground of its unique marine ecosystem, especially its dolphin population, and in recognition of the strides made in the New Quay and south Ceredigion communities in developing a sustainable eco-tourist trade, which could be jeopardised. The petition states: The Humble Petition of the people of Ceredigion and Save our Seas campaigners sheweth That the selling of licences for oil and gas drilling in Cardigan bay special area of conservation in the 24th round of offshore oil and gas licensing could cause damage to the resident dolphin population, as well as to the grey seals and harbour porpoises and other rare forms of wildlife, and would impact on the tourist industry based in west Wales and have a visual impact on an area of scenic beauty. Wherefore your Petitioners pray that your Honourable House urge the Government to prevent the selling of licences for oil and gas drilling in Cardigan bay special area of conservation in the 24th round of offshore oil and gas licensing. To lie upon the Table.