Mr David Horgan said yesterday he had been reinstated as finance director of Kenmare Resources by order of the High Court following the termination of his employment by the company's board.

But Mr Charles Carville, Kenmare's managing director, stated that Mr Horgan had not been reinstated and that any legal action by Mr Horgan would be resisted "when it comes before the court".

Later, he said he had received a letter from Mr Horgan's solicitors saying he was to expect a court order. But last night, no order had been received. But Mr Horgan said the termination of his employment had been overruled and the company had been restrained from appointing anyone in his place.