MEP Mullooly praises Tara Mines workforce for their dedication
Digging Deep: MEP Mullooly praises Tara Mines workforce for their dedication
MEP Ciaran Mullooly visited the Boliden-owned Tara Mines in Navan, County Meath, today, where he paid tribute to the workforce for their commitment to restoring the mine to full production following last year’s temporary closure. During his four-hour visit, MEP Mullooly toured the site, descending over 200 metres underground to meet with staff and management.
“I have known for some time of the dedication and commitment of the workers to make this operation work,” MEP Mullooly said. “But today, I gained a new insight into the conditions and operations carried out by the workforce when I was part of a group that drove down into the mine. These conditions are difficult at the best of times, yet I was impressed by the energy and determination of the staff.”
MEP Mullooly discussed financial challenges with Boliden management and sought updates on their plans to introduce deep mining at the site. He expressed satisfaction with their response, which outlined significant improvements and tangible changes planned for operations in the coming months and years. “I understand the huge costs facing Boliden and the many challenges confronting the workers,” he said. “However, I am keenly aware of the company’s plans to introduce a whole new range of green energy measures at their Navan site.”
Reflecting on his first visit to Tara Mines in the late 1990s, MEP Mullooly noted that over 800 people were employed there at that time, compared to fewer than 400 today. “Despite this reduction in numbers, I was made acutely aware of the dedication of the staff to make operations successful and profitable,” he remarked.
During his visit, MEP Mullooly met long-serving employees as well as younger staff members, including some who had returned from abroad. “I was pleased to meet one young man who had returned from Australia to work here,” he said. “This is a welcome reversal of current trends in Ireland, where people are leaving for opportunities abroad.”
MEP Mullooly concluded by thanking Boliden for hosting his visit and pledged his ongoing support for both workers and management as they work towards a sustainable future for Tara Mines.
