Support Package for Tara Mines Workers Extended

A support package for workers at Tara Mines will continue until the new year. This decision followed discussions between management and worker unions. The mine, located in Co Meath, halted operations in mid-July, leading to the lay off of 650 workers. The suspension was attributed to several reasons, including declining zinc prices, inflation, and rising energy costs.

The mine management had earlier decided on this temporary closure to potentially ensure the mine's longevity. During the layoff, most workers agreed to conditions that included a €65 weekly retainer payment.

Gunnar Nyström, the general manager of Tara Mines, mentioned that several meetings with unions had taken place since the July suspension. He confirmed the continuation of the current support package for the workers but also stated the reasons for the mine's closure were still present, making it unclear when operations would resume.

John Regan from SIPTU labeled the recent meeting as generally positive. He noted that the terms agreed upon at the Workplace Relations Commission would continue till the end of January. Regan emphasized the union's push for a clear date to restart operations and the introduction of a voluntary redundancy package. Further discussions with the mine management regarding operational matters are expected.

Tara Mines expressed gratitude towards the union groups for their continued collaboration and reassured their commitment to seeking viable methods to restart the mine's operations.

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