Boliden - Tara Mines

Tara Mines is Europe’s largest zinc mine, and has been operating in Navan, Co Meath since 1977. With approximately 400 direct employees, it is one of Meath’s largest and longest-established employers. Across its almost 50-year history, Tara has long been recognised for its valuable contribution to the local community and economy, and its strong backing of local charitable causes. After a period of temporary closure due to market conditions across 2023 and 2024, Boliden Tara Mines is now back to production.

Due to its scale and centrality to European zinc production, Tara Mines is supporting Ireland and Europe’s transition to the circular economy. Zinc is an important transition metal, with a wide range of applications in renewable and sustainable technologies ranging from wind turbines and solar panels to electric car batteries.

Tara Mines is part of Boliden Group, which has owned the operation since 2004. With the support of Boliden, Tara is working to extend the life of the mine. Its exploration work is focused around the present zinc deposit and on a separate exploration prospect called Tara Deep which is the largest exploration programme in Boliden and has the potential to extend the life of mine substantially.