Tuesday 31 July 2007

Study to investigate Avoca mining area

The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Eamon Ryan T.D., is conducting a wide-ranging study to investigate the impacts of past mining activity and develop rehabilitation and long-term management options for the Avoca mining site.

The study is being managed by the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) with international consultants CDM providing expert assistance.

As part of the study, the GSI and CDM hosted a public meeting, entitled - 'Planning Avoca's Future' - in the Woodenbridge Hotel on 26th July. The meeting served to inform the community on the study and also to seek their input on the future of the area. Over 70 people from the local community attended the meeting.

Eibhlín Doyle, Principal Geologist, Geological Survey of Ireland, said - "The meeting was very effective, with excellent input from the community. The aim of the study is to develop a costed rehabilitation and management plan for the Avoca mine area. Over the coming months we will be carrying out investigations in and around the site to build a more complete picture so that we can progress the action plan for the Avoca mine site.

"When we have finished our investigations and developed options for the site, we will be returning to the community for their comments and input."

Once the study is completed, a proposed Action Plan for the rehabilitation and Management of the Avoca Mining Area will be presented to the Minister.

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