Hope of mining jobs for Limerick

CONNEMARA Mining’s latest drill has show that lands near Pallasgreen in Co Limerick contain vast amounts of zinc which could lead to the opening of one of the biggest mines ever in this country.

Mining experts believe this is poised to be a €1 billion development, creating hundreds of jobs, although it will be up to another seven years before the mine can be opened.

Chairman of AIM-listed Irish zinc explorer Connemara Mining John Teeling said the deposits found at Pallasgreen have serious potential.

“Based on experience that those of us in zinc have had for 40 years, it is highly likely that geologically this will be a 20 million ton ore body.

“That, by world standards, is very big and will benefit Ireland down the road. It will employ hundreds of workers; there will be lots of local suppliers and there will be lots of power used,” he said.

“You would expect something of the order of 6,000 tons a day and 400 to 500 workers. But it is certainly five to seven years away at the earliest.”

Connemara Mining and operators Teck Resources Ltd are investing €2 million in drilling a further 30 holes in 2010. Connemara Mining will contribute €600,000 towards the drilling programme.

Local councillor Eddie Wade said there is a great sense of anticipation in the area.

“This mine has the potential to transform the whole east Limerick economy and it will present an awful lot of opportunities for employment. These will be long-term well- paid jobs,” he added.

Mr Wade said it is imperative that work is planned for the development of the local infrastructure.

“We know there has been soil testing going on for years, but now there seems to be a more definite time-scale being drawn up for the opening of the mine.

“It is great to be able to look forward to a project of this scale and it will give people who have been forced to leave the area the opportunity to come back,” he said.