Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Prospecting licences are controlled by a strict regulatory regime. As the Deputy said, when an application is made there is an opportunity for objections to be lodged. There are clear rules regarding protected areas where prospecting licences cannot be considered. If a licence moves beyond taking samples and investigating the opportunities to drill, there is a requirement for an environmental impact assessment to be carried out. This is a new requirement that has been developed. I assure the Deputy that there are strong protections within the existing Acts to ensure explorations for mineral resources are done in accordance with the strictest of criteria. That is the way in which this has been handled. A number of prospecting licences are in place. I think there are several hundred such licences. In the event of an attempt being made to develop further in the way about which the Deputy has expressed concern, there will have to be an environmental impact assessment as a major factor in deciding on any application. If any question of risk to public safety or damage to the natural environment needs to be considered, that will happen under the environmental impact assessment. A decision to allow such an application will not occur unless the public is being protected by the proposal being advanced.

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