Tara Mines has warned its largest union, SIPTU, that it is prepared to close the Navan mine if miners and general workers refuse to accept new work practices. Both sides are awaiting the outcome of a Labour Court investigation into the dispute, likely to be issued later today.
Management sources at Tara Mines confirmed yesterday that the company had made it clear to SIPTU that there was no leeway for further delay in the implementation of Tara 2005, the plan aimed at ensuring the commercial viability of the mine for the next decade.
It has postponed the introduction of the plan for a year to allow for a partnership approach. However, miners and general workers comprising half of the 600-strong workforce rejected the partnership proposals, recommended by unions and management, two weeks ago.
The company says it is sticking to its decision to introduce Tara 2005 next Sunday if the alternative proposals are not adopted. Reliable sources say the company made its position clear during extensive discussions between the two sides at the Labour Court last week.
Even if the Labour Court vicechairman, Mr Finbarr Flood, issues his recommendation later today, it leaves very little time to avert closure.
Assuming the court's recommendation is acceptable to both sides, the company will have to consult the Finnish owners, Outokumpu, and SIPTU will have to hold meetings with around 3,000 members before putting the proposals to ballot.
The other workers at the mines, including some sections organised by SIPTU, have already voted to accept the partnership changes. These are aimed at reducing costs by 14 per cent and increasing production by 25 per cent. These workers will not be balloted on the latest proposals, although their unions will be expecting them to benefit from any improvements which may emerge from the Labour Court investigation.
Tara Mines in the largest employer in the north-east. Staff earn an average £30,000 a year and its closure would represent a severe economic blow to Navan and the surrounding area.