Legislative Council Fifty-First Parliament, Third Session (51-3) 51 3 Parliament of South Australia Legislative Council published Answers to Questions Answers to Questions Mining Sector MINING SECTOR The Hon. M. PARNELL Legislative Council MINING SECTOR In reply to the Hon. M. PARNELL (30 April 2008). The Hon. G.E. GAGO Legislative Council Minister for State/Local Government Relations, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Energy MINING SECTOR The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for State/Local Government Relations, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Energy): The Minister for Environment and Conservation has advised: 1.	The Department for Environment and Heritage employs one ongoing position dedicated to coordinating the administration and assessment of exploration and mining activities in parks and reserves. However, assistance is also provided by a number of senior departmental staff, including Rangers, in progressing mining-related activities. 2.	At 1 May 2008, there are 376 licences under State mining legislation over parks and reserves. 3.	The Department has reviewed the resources required in relation to exploration and mining activities in parks and reserves as the level of exploration and mining has increased. This is done annually as part of normal budgetary processes, taking into account all priorities for managing parks and reserves and the importance of supporting the State's economic development opportunities.