New Minerals Resource Map 24 May 2012
Resource map of Northern Ireland launched
Environment Minister
Alex Attwood and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment Arlene Foster
today launched a Minerals Resources Map of Northern Ireland.
The map will provide
planners, industry and local communities with a powerful tool to assist future
decisions on a county–by–county basis in relation to the continued supply of
minerals and in the protection of the environment.
In essence, local
industry will be able to use local minerals more effectively. Salt to keep
roads clear in winter, aggregates and other robust materials to support the
local construction industry, mineral supplements for the animal feeds industry
as well as base metals to sustain local manufacturing industry will all be more
accessible.
Environment Minister
Alex Attwood said: “This is a remarkable map. There has never been such a
picture of the resources under the ground we walk. It is a major tool to help
understand the rocks from which we obtain fossil fuels – relevant to our energy
needs; geothermal ‘hotspots’ – relevant to renewable energy; areas of
environmental designation – relevant to preservation of our natural heritage.
“This resources
snapshot will also be an essential planning and economic tool. The new Minerals
Resources Map will empower all users to readily examine the potential for
particular minerals across Northern Ireland, and will facilitate a planned
future of our limited natural resources and environment for generations to
come. It is also a fascinating picture of Northern Ireland resources,
environmental concerns and economic opportunities. ”
Enterprise Minister
Arlene Foster said: “Mineral resources are valuable national assets that are
vital to a modern economy. They are essential raw materials, which underpin
many industries including manufacturing, construction, power generation and
transportation. Global competition for mineral supplies is increasing.
“Local mineral
resources are critical to the development of a sustainable economy and it makes
good sense to use them where it is economically viable and environmentally
sustainable to do so.
“Northern Ireland’s
varied geology means it has significant potential for a wide range of mineral
resources – including aggregates, industrial minerals, precious and base metals
and fossil fuels.”
