Tara and govt in talks on new mine extension

The government and Tara Mines are involved in confidential discussions on the terms for a "major underground extension" at its Navan mine, according to a ministerial reply to a Dail question. In reply to Meath West TD Peadar Tóibín, Minister of State at the Dept of Communications, Energy & Natural Resources Fergus O'Dowd said the Department was at present in discussions with the company on terms for a new facility for a major underground extension. "It is my intention that the terms of any new facility will include payment of royalties to the State. The Deputy will appreciate that I cannot go into details that might compromise such discussions at this time," he said. Deputy Tóibín said this week that New Boliden's initial licences were coming to an end. It was to be hoped that an underground extension to the mine was granted. "It is very necessary in ensuring that Tara Mines remains a feasible business for County Meath," he said. The Boliden Tara Mines company which operates the lead and zinc mine did not respond to queries yesterday (Tuesday).