Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
165. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the Government’s position on the environmental damage caused by mining industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2072/22]
View answer167. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his attention has been drawn to the fact that mining activity is a significant producer of greenhouse gasses; his position on the fact that the granting of mining licences is then counterproductive to the climate action objectives and targets of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2075/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 165 and 167 together.
In July 2021, my Department published a draft Policy Statement for Mineral Exploration and Mining, and associated Strategic Environmental Assessment Environmental Report and Appropriate Assessment Natura Impact Statement for a 10 week public consultation. The consultation closed on 15 October, 2021 and my Department is currently reviewing the submissions received. It is anticipated that the Government will consider the draft policy statement in the coming months.
The document highlights the role of minerals in our everyday lives and the critical role that they will play in our transition to net zero emissions by 2050. The draft policy recognises that we need to repair, reuse and recycle more minerals and metals, but that this alone will not supply the types and quantities of minerals required to decarbonise our energy through solar power, renewable wind energy and batteries. Relying solely on minerals sourced outside Ireland and the EU risks supporting their development in parts of the world where less stringent environmental and human rights standards apply, as well as risking our ability to secure the minerals required to make the green and digital transitions a reality.
