Connexion France: Drill plan sparks human chain demo

NEARLY 500 people formed a human chain over two bridges and the River Gers quayside in Auch to protest against plans to continue exploration for shale gas - gaz de schiste. 

They were highlighting fears that new exploration permits would be granted for Beaumont-de-Lomagne (Tarn-et-Garonne) and Mirande (Gers). 

A law last year banned the only known method for extracting the gas - hydraulic fracturing or "fracking" - but energy and drilling companies are still pushing for exploration permits to be approved.   MORE