Niamh Smyth
Question:541. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will review a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43480/18]
View answerTuesday, 23 October 2018
Questions (541)
Written answers
The operation of a mine in Ireland is subject to three statutory consents: a State Mining Facility from my Department; Planning Permission from the Local Authority and an Integrated Pollution Control Licence (IPC) from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As the State Mining Facility consent authority, my Department is responsible for ensuring that Lease/Licence conditions are adhered to and that the relevant mine is operated in line with best practice and with all legal and regulatory obligations.
In relation to the recent developments at Magheracloone, officials from my Department's Exploration and Mining Division (EMD) have an oversight responsibility with regard to the company’s management of and response to the mine collapse. EMD have engaged an independent expert consultant to assist in assessing reports and any technical solutions submitted to them by the company to that end.
EMD officials have been continuously liaising with the company and the other statutory consent authorities as part of this process to ensure a consistent and co-ordinated effort to effectively minimise disruption, remediate damage already caused to the extent possible, and provide all necessary assurances in regard to the future operation and safety of the facility.
The review and investigation underway is utilising a range of technical expertise and is now at an advanced stage. The various parties are aware of the implications of recent events and are working towards an acceptable outcome that takes account of the concerns of the local community and the paramount objective of securing the safe operation of the facility, recognising that this is a business which has provided employment in the community since 1936.