Vol. 453 No. 2
40 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for the Marine if he has received a report from the Geological Survey of Ireland on the occurrence and nature of carbonate sediments around our coastline; the plans, if any, there are for commercial exploitation; if he will make a statement on the matter including the environmental considerations involved. [9063/95]
I have noted the recent report on carbonate sediments from the Geological Survey Office. It remains to be seen if the availability of the data in this report will stimulate interest in increased commercial exploitation.
Deposits of carbonate sediments form part of the soil and bed of the sea and under the Foreshore Acts require a licence from the Minister for the Marine to allow extraction.
In considering any application for such extraction I have regard to the effects of any proposed activity on fisheries, navigation, coastal erosion and the public good in coming to a decision to grant or withhold permission. The consideration of a foreshore licence application may also require the submission of an Environmental Impact Statetment (EIS).
