Economy Minister Dr has today launched a
Call for Evidence that will inform a new mineral licensing
policy.
The Call for Evidence is a milestone in the review of mineral
licensing. It provides an opportunity for the general public and
stakeholders to shape a new mineral licensing policy.
The Minister said: “The current licensing regime is out of date
and not fit for purpose. My Department is therefore developing a
new mineral licensing policy that places community support and
environmental protection at its heart. I am calling on everyone
with an interest in this issue to provide evidence that will
inform the future of minerals policy.”
The Minister concluded: “I am committed to modernising mineral
licensing legislation and building a regulatory framework that is
transparent, accountable, and rooted in meaningful community
engagement.”
The Call for Evidence will remain open until Thursday 21 May
2026. For more information please visit www.economy-ni.gov.uk/consultations/review-mineral-licensing-call-evidence-economy
Notes to editors:
1. The legal framework for current mineral prospecting licensing
is contained in the Mineral Development Act (Northern Ireland)
1969 and associated legislation.
2. Work on the necessary environmental assessments is continuing
and the next major milestone in the review of mineral licensing
will be the development of future of minerals policy options.
3. The new mineral licensing policy will be published by April
2027.
