Vol. 445 No. 9
218 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications when mining licence arrangements are likely to be completed for mining of lead and zinc at Galmoy, County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1557/94]
With regard to the proposed zinc/lead mining project near Galmoy, County Kilkenny, the statutory procedures which must be followed before a State mining licence may issue to the mining company in question, Arcon Mines Limited, are at an advanced stage. In May 1994 and in accordance with section 18 of the Minerals Development Act, 1979 I published notice of my intention to grant a State mining licence to Arcon. I have referred the representations received in response to that published notice to the Mining Board, an independent statutory body established under section 33 of the Minerals Development Act, 1940, for consideration.
The Mining Board has decided to hold an inquiry into those representations which will commence on 19 October 1994 and following which the board will furnish its report to me. It is my intention, subject to giving full consideration to any recommendations which the Mining Board may make, to issue the State mining licence with the minimum of delay.
