The Government has allocated €2.2 million to clean up a toxic site near the Silvermines region of north Co Tipperary.
The remedial works in the Gortmore area, which were approved by the Cabinet, are due to be completed by the end of 2008.
A 147-acre site known as the Gortmore Tailings Pond was used as a waste facility for mining activity until the Silvermines ceased production in the early 1980s.
Local campaigners claim miners left behind a pool of toxic waste containing lead and arsenic deposits.
Community groups in the area have waged a 25-year battle to have the area cleaned up to remove all health and safety risks.
PA