Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 June 2023
66. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has sought to develop a solution, in partnership with the management of a company (details supplied) for the continuation of the mines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30825/23]
View answerBoth my Department, the Department of Social Protection and other relevant Government Agencies will support the company and the employees in any way we can including through any income supports that are available through the Department of Social Protection.
My Department and I were first informed of the decision of the Boliden Tara Mines Board to put the company into care and maintenance on 13 June. I subsequently met with the company management and union representatives, together with my officials, on 15 June.
The company informed me that the decision to temporarily suspend operations and place the mine into care and maintenance had been taken to safeguard the long-term future of the company.
The company said they were in a very difficult financial position due to a number of factors including a decline in the price of zinc, high energy prices, general cost inflation as well as some other operating challenges.
Officials from my Department and Enterprise Ireland met again with the company earlier this week to explore options for securing the long-term future of the mine and employment.
I understand that discussions between the company and the Unions are proceeding on an ongoing basis and that so far these discussions have been constructive. I am also aware that this dialogue is to continue.
Meanwhile my Department will continue to explore together with Enterprise Ireland the scope for assisting the company through available cost saving and other supports within the existing state aid parameters.
