The Tara Mines in Navan are warning 660 jobs could be lost if the Government refuses to support energy costs at the operation. The Swedish parent company, Boliden, is warning energy costs will rise this year by 330 per cent to 98 million Euro.
The company recorded pre-tax profits in 2021 of 19 million euro and says EU rules allow energy users up to 50 million euro, if they suffer a 40 per cent drop in earnings.
Aontú Leader and TD for Meath West Peadar Toibín says it's time Enterprise Minister Simon Coveney clarifies where Tara Mines stands on this issue in the coming days.
“I understand that the second biggest cost in Tara Mines is now electricity," he explained. "The massive question facing all of us is why is the government, standing idly by when electricity remain so expensive in Ireland. There is deep frustration among domestic and commercial customers due to extortionate electricity prices despite collapsing wholesale prices.
"All of this is happening when ESB profits more than doubled. Last October the government stated that they would put in place a windfall tax if energy companies continued to profiteer. As with many government promises it remains unrealised”.
“Simon Coveney must inject some urgency into is actions. Coveney must meet with management immediately to safe guard these jobs. Minister Eamon Ryan has been asked to visit Tara Mines before but to date he has refused to do so. Green party ideology cannot come before the bread and butter needs of thousands of Meath families. I am also calling on Boliden to commit to Tara Mines. I understand that millions of tonnes of ore are taken from the mine per annum and the mine is profitable. Boliden should commit to the county for the long term”.
