Mines and Minerals Act, 2009 (No. 12 of 2009).

This Act provides rules relative to the exploration for and the exploitation of mineral resources and related matters such as the protection of the environment and the use of water resources. It also contains special provisions relating to radioactive minerals.The Minister responsible for mineral resources shall be the principal administration authority for purposes of this Act and the Director of Mines shall be responsible for the implementation of this Act. Some powers are assigned to the Director of Geological Survey. The Minerals Advisory Board, established under this Act, shall advise the Minister on mining and related protection of the environment.The Act places restrictions on the use of land by the holder of a mineral right. The owner or lawful occupier of any land shall retain the right to graze stock upon or to cultivate the surface of such land. The Minister may compulsorily acquire private land or rights over or under private land for use by the holder of a large-scale mining licence. The Director shall establish and maintain a Mining Cadastre. Holders of mining rights may utilize the water and timber as necessary for mining operations. Dredging for minerals requires a special permit from the Minister.In addition to any requirements set out in the Environment Protection Act, an environmental impact assessment shall be prepared by a small-scale or large-scale mining licence applicant.