Cllr Kathleen McGurk Welcomes Moratorium on New Mineral Licences
McGurk has welcomed the Economy Minister’s announcement of a moratorium on new mineral licences pending the completion of assessments.
Sinn Féin Councillor Kathleen McGurk has welcomed the Economy Minister’s announcement of a moratorium on new mineral licences pending the completion of assessments.
Economy Minister, Dr. Caoimhe Archibald, made the announcement on Friday after awarding the contract for Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and a Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA) of mineral licensing to Tetra Tech RPS.
Cllr McGurk said:
“A comprehensive review of mineral licensing policy was initiated by former Economy Minister Conor Murphy and Minister Archibald has been working to ensure any decisions taken are legal and transparent, while progressing the review as quickly as possible.
“It is welcome news that Minister Archibald will be able to legally introduce a moratorium on new mineral licences once the SEA and HRA are complete.
“Sinn Féin continues to stand with the communities across the north who have voiced strong and legitimate concerns about prospecting and mining in their areas.
“The future of these communities lies in sustainability, environmental stewardship and empowerment.”