SIPTU representatives will attend talks with government representatives on Monday (3rd July) and separate discussions at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) on Tuesday (4th July) concerning issues relating to the threatened temporary closure of Tara Mines in Navan, county Meath. SIPTU TEAC Division Organiser, Adrian Kane, said: “Trade union representatives are scheduled to meet with government representatives including Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney, on Monday afternoon. Top of the agenda, at these talks, will be what possible actions the Government could take to save the mine from a temporary closure situation. We will also be seeking commitments in regard to social protection measures to safeguard our members’ livelihoods and the local economy.” “On Tuesday, we have been invited to talks at the WRC to discuss a large number of outstanding issues related to the possible temporary closure of the mine. Representatives of the owners of the mine, Boliden, will also be attending the talks with the WRC. The focus of this meeting will be possible lay off terms and considering the factors which could bring the mine back into full operation.” He added: “Union representatives will be seeking as positive an outcome to these discussions as possible. However, the Government and company must be fully aware that our members will not accept moves that will endanger the future of this vital economic resource or the economic wellbeing or their communities. We will not be leaving this mine until all outstanding issues are resolved to the satisfaction of our members.” SIPTU Sector Organiser, John Regan, said: “Without significant government intervention, or some other major change, it is looking increasingly likely that the move of the mine into a care and maintenance situation will occur on 14th July as planned by its owners. “Union members at Tara Mines remain committed to the proposals that were presented to the company and the Government earlier this month which we believe can maintain the mine in full operation to at least the end of the year. In this regard, we will continue fighting for the interests of our members and the wider community.”
SIPTU to attend talks with government and WRC next week concerning threat to Tara Mines
