As a result of increased sick leave related to covid-19 together with production disruptions in both the Aitik mine in Sweden and the Tara mine in Ireland, operating profit in the Business Area Mines is estimated to be negatively affected by close to SEK 200 m during the first quarter.

In Aitik, an increased spread of covid-19 and associated sick leave has meant that mine production has not been able to be fully maintained during the first quarter. In addition, hydraulic problems in one out of two primary mills in the concentrator plant have led to production disruptions. The total production impact in Aitik is estimated at just over 1 Mton reduced throughput in addition to seasonal variations.

Also in Tara, increased absenteeism due to Covid-19 has had a negative effect on production. In addition, a breakdown of the ore hoist has occurred in the mine. The breakdown has caused a halt in mining production, which is expected to last for a week.

The total impact on operating profit in the Business Area Mines is estimated at close to SEK  -200 m during the first quarter.

For further information, please contact:

Klas Nilsson, Director Group Communications, tel: +46 (0)70-453 65 88