David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

This sounds suspiciously similar to mining contracts, and I am very disturbed that the Minister of State has indicated that mining has been excluded from this. I presume exploration has been excluded as well. The Minister is nodding. I am concerned because we may be giving away much of our resources without due regard and protection for local people. The very big contractors such as Shell and BP are well able to shaft people lower down while they take our oil, which is being given free, gratis and for nothing. I am very sorry that mining has been excluded. Is there a reason for that?