asked the Minister for Energy the companies to which mineral exploration licences have been granted in the general area of Croagh Patrick, County Mayo; the types of exploration currently in progress in this area; and the conditions pertaining to such licences under which such mineral exploration can take place.
Written Answers - Mineral Exploration.
131.
My Department has granted four mineral prospecting licences to Tara Prospecting Ltd. operating in joint venture with Burmin Exploration & Development plc and two other licences, held jointly by Andaman Resources plc and Glencar Explorations Ltd., in the general area of Croagh Patrick. The principal interest of the companies at present is in prospecting for gold.
Their operations involve the general range of exploration procedures from basic geological mapping and soil and stream sampling through to drilling where warranted. These operations are carried out in accordance with the general rules pertaining to the grant of prospecting licences including provisions in relation to safeguarding the interests of local landowners and in relation to preservation of the amenities of the locality.