Conroy Diamonds and Gold, the exploration company set up by Prof Richard Conroy after he left Arcon Resources two years ago, is to carry out a major exploration programme on the Clontibret gold antimony prospect in Co Monaghan. Conroy has also arranged for its shares to be traded on the Ofex over the counter market in London.

According to a statement from Conroy, consultants Watts Griffis and McOuat have put a "fair market value" on the Clontibret property of between £3.65 million and £5.5 million. Examination of existing information has identified 36 lodes in the area and the company plans an exploration programme which will include geochemical and geophysical sampling and drilling.