Fine Gael Meath West TD, Damien English, has welcomed the announcement that the Government has agreed terms of new leases with the owners of Tara Mines, which will allow for a major underground extension of the mine and the continuation of mining for another ten years.

Mr English said: "This is a hugely positive development for Tara Mines and for the Navan area generally. Discussions on securing new leases have been on-going for well over a year, and I am very pleased that the process has reached a positive conclusion.

"Tara Mines is the largest employer in Meath, providing a livelihood for over 650 workers, and the spin off for the local economy is huge. Securing new ten year leases will ensure that the spend generated by Tara Mines in the local community is maintained, which is fundamental to the future development of Navan town.

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"Employees at the Mines have been worried about the long-term security of their jobs, so I am sure that the announcement will come as a huge relief. This announcement, combined with a series of other agreements reached over the last 12 months, will secure their employment for the long-term.

"I understand from discussions with those involved at Tara Mines that mineral resources of very high potential have been discovered, thanks to significant investment in exploration. This investment has proven to be very fruitful. It is hoped that the operators of Tara Mines will be able to take full advantage of the new ten years leases agreed with the Government, including a major expansion of the mine.

"Exploration is continuing around the mine to identify further mineral resources, which it is hoped will become mineable ore reserves, leading to further activity at the Mines."

(CD/JP)