Tara workers still waiting on mine return date

Three months after production at Tara Mines was shut down, the 650 workers laid off are still waiting on a date for return to work.

Management at Boliden Tara Mines confirmed to unions today (Tuesday) that the mine is to remain in care and maintenance mode as they are not in a position to give a date for a return to work due to unfavourable markets.

Unions had been expecting word on a possible return date today, but in a letter to the unions, management said they were not in a position to give a date.

The company has been warned by SIPTU that "a date for the recommencement must be delivered by the company as a matter of urgency. Failing to do so will only see all parties back before the WRC."

The company agreed to extend the current support package for employees until the new year at a meeting of unions with management last Thursday morning.

Gunnar Nyström, general manager, said: "Unfortunately, the factors that influenced the decision to temporarily place the mine into care and maintenance are still evident. As such, it is not possible to be definitive about the timeline for reopening."

The meeting on Thursday between management and representatives from the company’s group of unions, was to review the working arrangements and support package that were agreed after the mine was placed into care and maintenance on 14th Julylast.

SIPTU confirmed the union has secured an extension of a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) agreement that covers temporary lay-offs.

The agreement, which includes a €65 retainer to all workers on temporary lay-off along with the extension to the premium payment of health insurance, has been extended until 31st January. At the talks, a framework was also agreed for a "return to normal operations" at the Navan facility.

"At the meeting, management also confirmed further engagement on the union’s proposals to assist in an early return to normal operations and agreed the use of an external facilitator to assist with this process.

"It was also agreed to commence negotiations on a voluntary redundancy package as workers cannot be left in limbo and indefinitely on lay-off."

Mr Nyström said Thursday's meeting followed four other constructive meetings with the unions since July.

"Boliden Tara Mines will continue to work closely with all stakeholders and the company’s group of unions to explore potential options to re-open the mine."