Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Jun 1992

Vol. 420 No. 9

Written Answers. - Abandoned Mines.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

54 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Energy if he will outline the discussion he has had with mineral companies regarding possible contributions by them to the cost of cleaning up abandoned mines; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Mary Flaherty

Question:

63 Miss Flaherty asked the Minister for Energy if he will outline his plans for dealing with unsightly abandoned mines.

Minister for Energy (Mr. Molloy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 54 and 63 together.

I am very concerned at the existence of a number, albeit small, of unsightly abandoned mine sites throughout the country. These arise from old operations which were not subject to modern environmental criteria and planning laws. My Department is currently in consultation with the industry to initiate a programme of research into ways and means of how best to rehabilitate these sites and of all necessary follow up action to address the problem. I intend that representatives of the industry and of my Department should jointly consider how this should be organised and funded. EC funding possibilities are currently under investigation. I should of course point out that there are strict requirements in relation to rehabilitation of mine sites provided for in modern leases and that all leases must provide bonds to ensure compliance with my Departments requirements and those of the Local Authorities in relation to such rehabilitation.