The Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan has defended his decision to explore the possibility of issuing a prospecting licence for gold, silver and base metals in north Leitrim.
The minister was questioned on his decision in the Dáil last night by Sligo Leitrim Independent TD Marian Harkin.
Minister Ryan claims that even if a prospecting licence is issued there is no guarantees that it will lead to a mining being carried out at a number of locations in Leitrim close to Manorhamilton.
Minister Ryan says he is aware of the impact that mining can have on communities and has urged all interested parties to submit proposals on the issue.
The Green Party leader says there is a need for base metals in ‘the period of low carbon transmission’ and warned that importing such metals is not always the most environmentally friendly option.
