Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2024
111. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications in relation to proposed lithium drilling in Moylisha Hill, if he is aware of the strength of local feeling against this development and the opposition expressed by environmentalists; if he will oppose this proposed programme of invasive drilling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10019/24]
View answerMineral exploration activities in Ireland take place within a framework of Irish and EU legislation, including those implemented to ensure that the environment, including water quality, is protected. All exploration activities must be undertaken in such a manner as to avoid damage to the environment and amenities of the Licensed Area and to avoid or minimize disturbance of residents.
All Prospecting Licence (PL) applications are made to the Geoscience Regulation Office (GSRO) of my Department in a prescribed manner, including the provision of information on the proposed work to be carried out, the area of interest, and the mineral for which the company wishes to explore.
The Government published on 7th December 2022 a Policy Statement on Mineral Exploration and Mining, which sets out the key principles and priorities that will guide the regulation of these activities and the role minerals will play in our future. The Policy asserts that the protection of our environment and conservation of our natural heritage is paramount in how these activities will be regulated.
Lithium is included on the 2020 List of Critical Raw Materials accompanying the European Commission's Action Plan on Critical Raw Materials: ‘Critical Raw Materials Resilience: Charting a Path towards greater Security and Sustainability'. The Action Plan proposes actions to reduce Europe's dependency on third countries, diversifying supply from both primary and secondary sources and improving resource efficiency and circularity while promoting responsible global sourcing. The European Commission is working with Member States and stakeholders to finalise the Critical Raw Materials Act in 2024, which will address European supply issues at all levels including mining, refining, processing and recycling; and associated environmental protections and public engagement at each stage.
