Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 258: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his proposals for oil, gas and other mineral explorations in the future with particular reference to the current or proposed amendment to the licensing regime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18300/07]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

With regard to petroleum, I am considering the report of the consultants who were engaged to assist with the review of the licensing regime. My proposals for the future of the licensing regime will be considered by Government in the near future and I will then take appropriate steps to give effect to the decisions taken.

With regard to non-petroleum minerals, exploration and development is undertaken by private enterprise and regulated under the Minerals Development Acts, 1940 to 1999. While it is my intention to consolidate and update the Minerals Development Acts in a new Minerals Development Bill, currently being drafted, I do not propose any change of policy.