McLaughlin slams Economy Department on Derry mining concessions

THE SDLP’s Derry Assembly representative Sinéad McLaughlin has criticised the Department for the Economy following the release of recent statistics showing that 69.1% of land in the local authority area for Derry and Strabane is covered by mining concessions.

Said the Foyle MLA: “The fact that such a significant majority of our land is covered by mining concessions will be deeply concerning to the people of Derry and Strabane.

“Local communities and environmental campaigners have previously spoken out about the risks posed by mining concessions, yet the DUP seems content to disregard these concerns and pursue profit while wrecking our land.

“The SDLP is clear that our land should never be sacrificed for the sake of greed.

“And that instead of granting further licences or concessions, we should choose to protect our stunning natural landscape and indigenous wildlife for generations to come.

“I have today written to the Economy Minister to express my deep concern and ask that he revisits his Department’s policy in this area.”

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