TDs to visit toxic mining pond in Tipperary

Members of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Marine and Natural Resources are to examine a disused 149-acre toxic mining pond…

Members of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Marine and Natural Resources are to examine a disused 149-acre toxic mining pond at Silvermines, Co Tipperary, today.

The committee is looking into the issues surrounding the rehabilitation of the mine sites, the delays in finalising plans, and the legislation needed to facilitate the reforms.

Labour Party senator Ms Kathleen O'Meara, who requested the examination, said the visit would highlight the need for action at national level on this environmental issue.

"I believe there is foot-dragging going on in relation to this matter and we need to hear a clear agenda for action from the Government on the clean up . . . other mine sites in Silvermines."

Local people from Gortmore plan to make a submission to the committee at a normal meeting in a few weeks.

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