Buckingham Palace has said “it would not be possible” to return the rights for Northern Ireland’s gold and silver to its indigenous people and politicians.
It follows a request from Fermanagh and Omagh and District Council in July that the Queen consider divesting these rights to mark her Platinum Jubilee.
Access to most of Northern Ireland’s minerals is governed by the Department for Economy but the Crown effectively owns our gold and silver.
That means anyone hoping to prospect or mine for either first needs permission from The Crown Estate.
Following a motion from Cllr Emmet McAleer, Fermanagh and Omagh’s chief executive wrote “regarding your Platinum Jubilee Civic honors, the council would request in the context of the Jubilee year that you consider divesting the function to grant permission for licenses for exploration of gold and silver from The Crown Estate and return that responsibility to the indigenous people and their local representatives”.
The Queen’s private secretary Sir Edward Young responded to the council’s request in a letter dated November 3.
He apologised for the delay while the “question was properly investigated”.
But added: “Having consulted the relevant authorities, including The Crown Estate, my understanding is that it would not be possible to divest this function, known as Mines Royal, as it falls within the statutory remit of The Crown Estate.
“I understand, however, that The Crown Estate encourages proposals for the commercial exploration and development of gold and silver deposits, providing these are carried out in accordance with statutory requirement and meet high environmental standards.”
he then provided details for The Crown Estate’s Mineral Agency “should you wish to make such a proposal” to them.
Cllr McAleer told the Mirror the response “missed the point”.
“A letter came into council about whether the district would like to apply in the Queen’s Jubilee year for town or city status anywhere the district because this was meant to be something to celebrate the jubilee year.
“I thought if she’s offering us something to celebrate and commemorate jubilee year, why not give the mineral rights back to the people.”
Cllr McAleer was elected to Fermanagh & Omagh Council following a campaign against mining in his home village of Greencastle, Co Tyrone.
Dalradian Gold has applied for planning permission to mine for silver, gold and other precious metals in the area.
The controversial application has been called in by the Department for Infrastructure, which has ordered a public inquiry before any decision is made.
Dalradian say it will brings jobs and investment to the area.
Locals are concerned about the impact on their community, health and environment.
