Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MLA Aoife Finnegan has said that the recent relinquishing of several mineral prospecting licences in the Sperrins area reinforces the urgent need to ensure the regulatory framework underpinning mineral licensing is fit for purpose with environmental protection, transparency, and community consultation central to decision-making.

Sinn Féin Environmental spokesperson Finnegan commented following the confirmation by the Department for the Economy that a number of mineral prospecting licences granted in May 2025 have now been relinquished.

“This situation reinforces the urgent need to ensure the regulatory framework underpinning mineral licensing is fit for purpose with environmental protection, transparency, and community consultation central to decision-making.

“A comprehensive review of mineral licensing policy was initiated by former Economy Minister Conor Murphy and it is still ongoing.

“Minister Caoimhe Archibald has been working to ensure decisions are taken lawfully and transparently, while progressing the review as quickly as possible.”

Ms Finnegan concluded: 

“Sinn Féin continues to stand with the communities of the Sperrins, and across the north who have voiced strong and legitimate concerns about prospecting and mining in their areas.

“We believe that the future of the Sperrins lies in sustainability, environmental stewardship and the empowerment of local communities.

CRÍOCH/ENDS