Mineral exploration firm Ovoca Resources expects to test drill for a lead/zinc deposit "of major dimension" in west Co Limerick before the end of the year.

However, Ovoca's chief executive Mr Frank Buckley said it will not initially drill at a priority 1 location due to "logistical reasons", which were "not insurperable". "We can't do the optimum thing yet."

Speaking after yesterday's annual general meeting, Mr Buckley said Ovoca was focusing on a 10km geological trend north of Newcastle West in Co Limerick. He said the firm may initially drill some 3kms away from Newcastle West at an initial cost of £10,000-£20,000 per hole.