A consensus has been reached to recommence operations at Tara Mines, thanks to negotiations between Boliden—the Swede proprietors of the mine—and the trade unions representing the employees who had been previously laid off. The facility, located in Co Meath, ceased production last July, resulting in a temporary lay-off of 650 workers. This action was taken in response to the company’s “considerable and untenable financial losses” triggered by plummeting global zinc prices. In an attempt to establish a rescue blueprint for the mines, Boliden had been in discussions with the trade unions Siptu and Unite under the auspices of the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). It is presumed that the agreement made at the WRC on Tuesday night will lead to a phased recommencement of zinc mining in the area. Attempts have been made to gain comment from Unite, Siptu, and Boliden. Further updates are expected shortly…
