Mine rescue boosts Mincon profits

THE Irish firm that designed and made the drill piece that led to the survival of the 33 Chilean miners recorded its most profitable year to date in 2010 after a difficult 2009.

In October, Mincon won worldwide publicity when it emerged that its MX5053 drill piece,designed at its Shannon plant, broke through the cavity where the miners had been trapped since August 22. The narrow hole it drilled through a half mile of rock established communication with the men and provided them with food, water and medical supplies before they were rescued.

Mincon director Joe Purcell confirmed yesterday that the company’s role in the mine rescue has resulted in new customers and contributed to the company “having our most successful year to date”.