Socio-political activist Arun Gandhi, the grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, was one of the international human rights figures to congratulate Love Leitrim’s anti-fracking group who received a Save our Planet award on Sunday, August 11th in Co. Sligo.

The awards are designed to recognize the contribution of local environmental heroes to their communities, both locally and nationally.

After offering his "hearty congratulations,” Gandhi said of the oil and gas industry, "They have no concern for future generations and the consequences of poisoning the earth with chemicals that will eventually make the soil worthless.”

He urged a move away from short term thinking and rewarding corporate interests.

He asked: "Are we going to sell our souls and the souls of succeeding generations to the avarice of the few today?"

Love Leitrim are the community based organization behind the ‘farming not fracking’ logo that has gained international notoriety and been adopted as far away as New Mexico. They also have garnered the support of high profile stars to the campaign including Christy Moore and Glen Hansard.

Accepting the award on behalf of the group, Eddie Mitchell of Love Leitrim said: “Love Leitrim is everyone in this room and beyond nationally and internationally. We are not anti-development we are pro development. Everyone has a role to play in stopping fracking which is a threat to the sustainability of our environment, indigenous industries, as well as the health of our communities. The campaign will not stop until it protects all the things we love about Ireland by banning fracking.”