Exploration firm Connemara Mining has awarded an exploration licence for a zinc prospect in Co Kilkenny.

The Prospecting License 3313 is located to the north east of the Vedanta, Lisheen and Lundin, Galmoy Mines and to the south of the Rapla mineralized zone explored by Arcon and Lundin.

The license covers almost 50 square kilometre, with previous drilling restricted to the north-west corner, the company said.

Chairman John Teeling said: "This part of Ireland, which contains the giant Lisheen zinc mine and closed Galmoy mine, has always been rich in zinc. Our previous drilling has been focused on the north west of the block and we have potential targets to the south east."

“We are excited that the zinc industry is finally coming back to life with a supply deficit, which is likely to continue for some years. This licence adds to the high quality portfolio of licences across Ireland held by Connemara,” he added.