RE:Mining without blasting In theory yes, but will not be economical. The best way to increase efficiency is to use the stope/backfill method. This gives a very high volumetric coverage quickly and efficiently, but long hole drilling and blasting is essential for this to happen.
The NI government have just announced that they are in debt to the tune of £600million, a favorable outcome to GALs issues looks impossible- ie, free escort duty from the police.
For this to get going again I would expect DAL to have to settle their account with the police first, then both DAL and GAL can negotiate with the police for resources and costs.
From previous posts, I'd estimate this will put around £8m to £10m on top of current operations. If gold price increases, this could be sustainable, but I believe the gold bubble will bust soon.