'A seismic event across county' - Meath Chamber CEO

The threat of lay-offs at Tara mines have left Navan reeling, with business leaders warning of the ripple effect across the town and county.

“This is a seismic event for Co Meath, one which sent shockwaves across the county," said Paula McCaul, CEO of County Meath Chamber.

"Naturally, our concerns are for the financial and emotional implication on the families involved.

"In terms of the ripple effect on business, Tara Mines plays a vital role in our local economy and any closure, however temporary, will affect hundreds of support jobs who rely heavily on Tara Mines for their business and the retail and hospitality sector who depend heavily on local spend," Ms McCaul stated.

"It’s a worrying time for all concerned. As a Chamber we are acutely aware of the potential impact on our members right across Meath. We want to assure them that our Chamber doors are open, and we are here to help and support in any way we can.

"Tara Mines is the pride of Co Meath. It’s a cross generational institution, which is intertwined in our communities, and is very much loved and respected. We take comfort in the statement from management that this is a short-term measure, and we hope so see Tara Mines survive and thrive for future generations,” she said.

Navan Mayor, Cllr Eddie Fennessy described it as "deeply distressing news".

"Tara Mines has been a key driver of Navan's growth over the past 50 years. The government needs to move hell and high water to protect local employment and trade interests at the Mine. The consequences of losing 650 jobs and the knock on effect this would have on the local economy would be catastrophic.

"There are a lot of very worried families in Meath. I urge the government to ensure they are given access to whatever supports are needed to get them through this difficult situation."

Senator Shane Cassells said not only does Tara Mines employ 650 people but it supports thousands of other jobs in the region.

"We must do everything we can to support the long term future of the mine and those employed there. Management claim this decision has been taken to safeguard the long-term future of the operation at Navan, in response to significant and unsustainable losses that the business here is currently experiencing.

"My thoughts are with the workers that are being temporarily laid off and it is essential that this is only a temporary step.

"I will be working hard with those in government to ensure it is only temporary and that we have Tara Mines back operational again ASAP."

Minister Helen McEntee said the closure would have a huge impact on the families involved and the local businesses who also rely on Tara.

Minister Thomas Byrne said he was absolutely devastated by the news. "Government has been assured this is temporary, and the government is engaging with Boliden". Deputy Johnny Guirke said Government needed to act fast and meet with Boliden management and unions. "We must protect the 650 jobs in Navan."

Deputy Peadar Toibin said it was disastrous news. "In April I called on the Minister for Enterprise to engage with Tara Mines on the spiraling cost of energy to save jobs."