Financial Performance and Temporary Closure
Tara Mines, the largest zinc mine in Europe, reported a profit of €24.4 million last year. However, the mine faced operational suspension this summer due to a combination of soaring energy costs and declining global zinc prices. Despite the profit, the Swedish-owned Boliden had to temporarily lay off nearly 700 workers. Currently, the mine in Navan, Co Meath, remains under care and maintenance with no set date for reopening.
Impact on Workers and Community
Gunnar Nystrom, General Manager of Tara Mines, acknowledged the significant impact of the closure on employees and the local community. The company has extended employee support and is actively developing a rescue plan to address operational challenges. The reopening of the mine will depend on both market conditions and the success of this internal rescue plan.
Financial Details and Market Influences
In 2022, Tara Mines saw its revenue increase by 7.5% to €253 million, driven by a surge in zinc prices, despite a decline in production volumes. The current state of the mine, which began production in 1977, involves a weekly cost of €1 million to keep it mothballed. Boliden’s president and CEO Mikael Staffas has expressed concern over the prolonged closure and its potential impact on future operations.
Global Zinc Market Dynamics
The zinc mining industry, known for its cyclical nature, is influenced significantly by market conditions. The recent downturn in the zinc market has led to similar suspensions of major zinc mines globally. Zinc, primarily used for galvanizing steel, has seen reduced demand due to sluggish construction activity. Nystrom cited the market’s extraordinary deterioration in 2023 as a key factor in the decision to place Tara Mines under care and maintenance.
