Legislative Measures

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 September 2019

Tuesday, 17 September 2019

Questions (534)

David Cullinane

Question:

534. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if the Minerals Development Act 2017 is fully enacted; if not, the legislation that pertains to minerals development; the environmental protection laws that apply to the Act in force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37135/19]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment

The Minerals Development Act 2017 was enacted on the 26th July 2017 however it is not yet commenced. The legislation relating to minerals development is covered in the Minerals Development Acts 1940 to 1999 as amended. There are three separate State consents required to develop a mine:

- An Integrated Pollution Control (IPC) Licence is required from the Environmental Protection Agency;

- Planning Permission is required from the Local Authority (including preparation of a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to support their application for Planning Permission); and

- A Mining Lease/Licence is required from the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment.