Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has announced the launch of a Call for Evidence aimed at informing a new mineral licensing policy.

This initiative represents a significant milestone in the review of the current regime, offering the public and industry stakeholders a chance to influence future legislation.

The Minister has indicated that the existing regulatory framework requires modernisation to meet contemporary standards. The new policy is intended to prioritise transparency, accountability, and robust environmental safeguards.

The Minister said: "The current licensing regime is out of date and not fit for purpose. My Department is therefore developing a new mineral licensing policy that places community support and environmental protection at its heart. I am calling on everyone with an interest in this issue to provide evidence that will inform the future of minerals policy."

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The Call for Evidence is designed to ensure that the resulting framework is built upon meaningful community engagement. This process is part of a broader commitment to update mineral licensing legislation and create a more effective regulatory environment.

The Minister concluded: "I am committed to modernising mineral licensing legislation and building a regulatory framework that is transparent, accountable, and rooted in meaningful community engagement."

The Call for Evidence will remain open until Thursday 21 May 2026. For more information please visit: www.economy-ni.gov.uk/consultations/review-mineral-licensing-call-evidence-economy