In a groundbreaking court ruling, the Dutch Court in Assen has ruled that the Dutch Oil Company (NAM) is responsible for both material and immaterial damage caused by the earthquakes that have resulted from oil and gas drilling in the north-east of the Netherlands.
According to press judge Biesma, “this is not only a matter of damaged homes, but also damaged souls.”
Many people experience tensions and feelings of insecurity. This crosses the line of what is socially acceptable.
It is the first time that a Dutch court has acknowledged the immaterial and psychological damage caused by oil drilling earthquakes.
Meanwhile, in Tirana, the inhabitants of Zharrëz are still waiting for a solution to the oil drilling activities of Bankers Petroleum, and a compensation for the material damage for their properties.
