Talks were continuing in Navan last night to avert this morning's strike at Tara Mines. Mr Mike Jennings of SIPTU described the situation as "touch and go".
The dispute has arisen over conflicting interpretations of an agreement between the unions and Outokompu, owner of the mine, last February.
Closure of the plant, which employs 600 people, was averted when both sides agreed a series of measures to boost production. The agreement provided for the use of contract miners while permanent workers were being trained.
A deadline of September 30th for replacement of the contract workers was agreed. However, only 11 new permanent miners were trained, instead of 20, and 43 contract miners are still employed.