Is the Minister now considering, in relation to applications for mining licences, whether or not it is to be a requirement that an environmental impact assessment be carried out prior to the decision being made by the Minister and what consultation does the Minister have with local authorities with regard to the planning aspect?

The Deputy is expanding the scope of the question out of all proportion.

The granting of a mining lease in any sensitive area would be subject to appraisal by the local authority and subsequent planning permission. It is my wish that as far as the granting of mining leases in any sensitive areas is concerned a condition for the granting of planning permission will be required before work can commence.

Is the environmental impact assessment a requirement?

Question No. 6, please.

That is a somewhat broader question than the one put down and it requires further clarification.

Question No. 6, please.

I will bow to the wishes of the Ceann Comhairle.