Taoiseach: 'We need to get the full facts' on Limerick alumina probe
Government opens investigation over allegations material from Aughinish is supporting Russian war effort
AN Taoiseach Micheál Martin has declined to be drawn on a Government investigation into whether Limerick-produced alumina reaches Russia-linked supply chains.
Reports this week have indicated material coming out of the Aughinish Alumina refinery, which employs close to 500 people in west Limerick, will not be included in the current round of sanctions from the European Union (EU) aimed at Russia.
It comes despite the Government opening a probe into the firm following an investigation by a consortium of journalists.
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This claimed that alumina produced in Limerick was shipped to Russian smelters which supply manufacturers linked to the country’s defence industry.
For its part, Aughinish Alumina’s parent firm, Rusal, says it is compliant with EU sanctions.
This Thursday, on a visit to Analog Devices, which is marking 50 years in Limerick, Mr Martin said: “We have to get the full facts of the entire situation. It’s an evolving situation in terms of both the product and the exportation”.
He said as soon as the Government’s investigation into the destination of the alumina is complete, they will work with the European Commission, the body responsible for proposing sanctions.
“We will get the full facts and work with the Commission on a response. I’m not going to pre-empt any of the scenarios. It’s a very significant facility in Limerick,” he told reporters.
“There is a broader industrial issue in terms of European industry. It’s important we realise no particular industry works in isolation in any particular country in Europe. Global supply chains are linked. Decisions here have consequences everywhere. That’s why at EU level when sanctions are discussed, we have to remember the strongest and most severe sanctions have already been implemented with the strongest support of Ireland.”
Aughinish Alumina employs 475 people in west Limerick, the area’s biggest employer.
It also supports dozens more roles in sub-supply.