Lignite mining concern
Pearse McAleer, Chairman of Cookstown Distict Council, has voiced
his concern at the advertisement of a grant of two licences to
explore for lignite. The licences, which have been issued by the
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, cover substantial
areas of the Ballinderry electoral area. ``Given the controversial
history of this issue I am very concerned that it appears to be
raising its head again and in such a wide area,'' said McAleer.
``This grant covers a sizeable area, from the Washingbay in
Dungannon Council right up to the Loup. This area has already
made its concerns clear after the previous attempts to mine for
lignite. I am amazed that we are now face with a repeat of this
issue.
``I will be writing to the Minister and DETI for further
information on this
application and the potential furure of such a application. I
will also be reminding him of the very successful and solid
campaign which was conducted by the whole community at the time
of the previous explorations. This community needs the support
and assistance of the DETI but it does not need to be ripped
apart with mining. This is an are of natural beauty enhanced by
the North's best resource, Lough Neagh. We cannot let that be
destroyed.