Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2025
70. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the Government's stance on expanding mining activities in protected areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2686/25]
View answerMineral exploration activities in Ireland operate within a framework of Irish and EU legislation, including those implemented to ensure environmental protection. All exploration activities must be undertaken in a manner avoiding damage to the environment and amenities of the Licensed Area and avoiding or minimizing disturbance of residents.
All mining must be preceded by planning permission, an EPA industrial emissions or integrated pollution control, and a State Mining Lease or Licence from the Geoscience Regulation Office, which must be accompanied by an Appropriate Assessment under the Habitats Directive and an Environmental Impact Assessment. Any State Mining Facility application will only be considered by the Minister if the first two regulatory approvals are given.
On 7 December 2022, the Government published a Policy Statement on Mineral Exploration and Mining, which is accessible at https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/3a2bb-policy-statement-on-mineral-exploration-and-mining/. This 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.
