Vol. 415 No. 1
34 Mr. Pattison asked the Minister for Energy if he will outline his current position on the granting of mineral exploration rights in the west of Ireland, particularly having regard to recent controversies; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
My policy in relation to mineral exploration in the west is the same as that which applies elsewhere in the country, which is that such exploration should be encouraged and facilitated in order to determine whether mineral resources exist. In the event of an economically viable mineral deposit being found, Government policy in relation to its development is clear. It is in favour of the development of the State's natural resources provided this can be achieved in an environmentally acceptable manner. There should be no blanket bans on mining. The existing procedures for planning permissions are more than adequate to safeguard the environment. I would stress that I, as Minister for Energy, will not allow any mining project to proceed unless it can be clearly demonstrated through the environmental impact assessment that it meets the very strict environmental requirements I have laid down. In addition, the requirement of the local authority planning process will also apply.
Will the Minister clarify his powers to grant licences where local authorities adopt development plans excluding such exploration?
Any mining licences issued are, of course, dependent upon planning permission being granted subsequently.
