"Our first consideration is the health and safety of our people," Dalley said in the house of assembly. "In making this decision, our government is acting responsibly and respecting the balance between economic development and environmental protection."

The province has not yet received formal applications to frack wells in western Newfoundland although exploration licences have been granted in what's known as the Green Point shale near Gros Morne National Park. The prospect of drilling in one of the province's prime tourism destinations has set off intense debate. It has also raised concerns about groundwater pollution and other risks.

Hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking, involves pumping water, nitrogen, sand and chemical additives at high pressure to fracture shale rock formations and allow gas or oil to flow through well bores to the surface.