Ireland’s Galmoy lead and zinc mine might be back in action as Shannon Resources has applied for the restart of mining activity.
Shannon lodged twin planning applications with Kilkenny and Laois County Councils to start mining at Galmoy, which were prematurely stopped in 2014. Significant resources remain underground, stated Shannon Resources, as reported by local Irish Media.
Around 310,000mt of ore is expected to be mined annually and 210,000mt of sorted ore will be generated at the site.
The recognized shortage of zinc globally has resulted in the decision to re-opening the mine at Galmoy. Global short supply of zinc amid economic recovery is causing prices to jump. Zinc is a key input for steel and other alloys used in the infrastructure and construction sectors.
Mine will be operational for 24 hours for six days a week, stated the reports. Lead and zinc will be bulk sorted before being shipped overseas for processing. The mine could have a life of 7-10 years after re-commencing operations.