SIPTU members and other unions accept proposals to resolve dispute at Tara Mines

SIPTU members, along with those in Unite and Connect, have voted to accept proposals brokered by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) in relation to the temporary lay-offs at Tara Mines. SIPTU members accepted the proposals with a 60% to 40% majority following a ballot. The proposals include assurances on improved allowances for members facing lay-off and guarantees that workers will return on existing terms and conditions following the proposed temporary closure.   SIPTU Divisional Organiser, Adrian Kane said: “SIPTU members have voted by a clear majority to accept the WRC proposals. We will be meeting later this month with management to discuss their implementation. The union will now embark on a major campaign to bring unemployment benefits in line with the EU norm. The reform of our grossly inadequate and unfair social protection system should be the lasting outcome of this dispute.”    SIPTU sector Organiser, John Regan said: “Our campaign now turns to seeking to get the mine back in production at the earliest opportunity. We have always said that the Government has a key role to play in bringing this about.”   A formal review of the WRC proposals and of the future of the mine will take place between union representatives and the owners, Boliden, in October 2023.