Calls for government intervention on Tara Mines

The government has been urged to intervene in the crisis facing Tara Mines.

The Connect trade union has called for immediate intervention by the Government in the crisis facing Tara Mines workers and the North East region following the rejection by the company today yesterday of proposals to keep the facility operating.

Connect National Construction Official, Tom Faulkner, said: “The company has rejected union proposals to prevent the temporary closure of the mine. We believe these proposals presented a set of realistic measures which could have maintained the operation of the mine at least until the end of this year, even in present zinc market conditions.

“The proposals necessitate action by the Government also in terms of assisting the financial situation of the mine. Our members are now calling on the Government to immediately take action in this situation in order to ensure every last possibility has been exhausted before we accept the temporary closure of the mine.”

He added: “Our members want to see the Government now directly engage with all sides. If the mine does go into a temporary closure situation it will have a disastrous impact on not only our members but the wider North East region and national economy.

“No stone should be left unturned by the Government in attempting to head off the temporary closure of the mine which is now scheduled for 14th July.”

The Mayor of Navan, Cllr Eddie Fennessy said the government needs to step in quickly or we could be faced with a long-term closure and mass unemployment at the mine.

"It would be unforgivable to stand idly by and allow that to happen. The government has a huge responsibility in all of this.

"The government needs to prioritise the welfare of the workers and their families. I urge them to engage with the unions and negotiate a package that will minimise the financial pressure they face."

"It is deeply concerning, not least for the hundreds of families and businesses who are financially dependent on its survival.

"It is disappointing that Boliden have decided to keep the mine closed. That decision will reverberate across the wider community and have a negative impact on the regional economy.

"I commend the unions in particular. They approached the negotiations in a practical manner and made a number of constructive proposals designed to cut costs and save jobs. That Boliden has rejected those proposals is a devastating blow to the workers and their families," he said.