As gold prospecting intensifies in North Leitrim, the community organization Treasure Leitrim is mobilizing residents against what it describes as a significant threat to the region’s landscape and heritage. At a recent meeting, the group emphasized the crucial role local landowners play in preventing mining companies like Flintridge Resources from advancing their activities.
Local Landowners Hold the Power
Treasure Leitrim’s Chairperson, Cllr. James Gilmartin, highlighted that landowners possess the critical authority to deny access to their properties—an action that could significantly hinder the prospecting process and potentially halt future mining operations.
“This is the only stage in the mining process where communities have a real say,” Gilmartin stated. “If landowners refuse access, it stops mining companies from progressing to the next stages.”
Gilmartin underscored the importance of vigilance, explaining that while prospecting licenses permit preliminary exploration, they are merely the first step towards securing full-scale mining permits. Flintridge Resources, which was granted prospecting licenses for 47 townlands in April 2022 by the Irish Minister for the Environment, is now moving into its second two-year phase of exploration.
Prospecting Licenses: The Initial Stage
The licenses cover an initial six-year period, divided into three distinct two-year intervals. The first phase, now complete, allowed Flintridge Resources to use historical geological data funded by the Irish government and analyze environmental samples from local streams and rocks. This information will form the basis for their upcoming mining license applications.
The company is now beginning its second phase, which involves more detailed sampling of river sediment, soil, and rock. This stage will require access to private land for deeper exploration, including drilling trial holes and potentially excavating trenches. According to Treasure Leitrim, this represents an escalation that demands a decisive response from landowners.
Stopping Mining in Its Tracks
Madeline Kelly, vice-chairperson of Treasure Leitrim, outlined the group’s strategy to prevent further advancement of mining activities. She emphasized that landowners possess substantial power in resisting Flintridge Resources.
“Where landowners refuse permission for the company or its agents to sample soils, sediment, or rock on their land, it greatly inhibits the mining company’s progress,” Kelly said. “This is where you, the landowners, are at your strongest. If they can’t get in, they can’t proceed.”
Kelly stressed that landowners have no legal obligation to grant access, reaffirming their absolute right to deny entry for prospecting purposes. “As the guardian of the land, you have the power to protect it for future generations against the numerous dangers associated with this unnecessary process,” she added.
Support from Local Authorities
Treasure Leitrim’s campaign has garnered support from local politicians. All councillors from the Manorhamilton Municipal District have expressed their backing for a national ban on gold mining activities, arguing that such a measure is essential to safeguard the environmental integrity of North Leitrim.
In addition to meetings, Treasure Leitrim provides resources for landowners, including signs available at Killasnett Co-op in Manorhamilton, which can be used to display opposition to mining activities.
Community Meetings to Intensify Efforts
The group hosts regular meetings to strategize and mobilize further action. Their next gathering is scheduled for Monday, October 28, at the Manorhamilton Community Centre. All are encouraged to attend.
“We want to ensure that every landowner knows their rights and understands the power they hold,” Gilmartin said. “It’s essential to stand united to protect our land from exploitation.”
With gold mining prospects looming, the residents of North Leitrim face a pivotal moment. Treasure Leitrim is committed to rallying community support to block mining operations before they gain momentum. As the group prepares for its next meeting, their message remains clear: the power lies with the landowners to safeguard the future of their region.
