Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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112. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the drilling rigs at Catherline bog, County Limerick; if his attention has been drawn to the purpose of these rigs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20189/13]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Xstrata Zinc Ireland Ltd. holds prospecting licences under the Minerals Development Acts 1940 to 1999 over an area centred on Caherconlish, County Limerick and including the townland of Caherline referred to by the Deputy. The minerals licensed for exploration in this case are base metals, barytes and zinc. I am informed that the company is currently carrying out an approved programme of drilling in the area, employing five drilling rigs. In carrying out all such activities within the licensed area, it is a strict condition that the licensee must conduct operations so as to avoid damage to the environment and the amenities of the area, to avoid or minimise disturbance of persons resident there and comply with all relevant statutory planning and environmental requirements.