CSO Clarifies Aughinish Alumina Export Figures to Russia Amid Sanctions Debate
The CSO is clarifying Aughinish Alumina's export figures to Russia after Minister Peter Burke disputed initial reports. An investigation is underway into the company's alumina shipments, which an earlier report linked to Russian arms manufacturers. Ukraine's Embassy welcomed the probe, stressing the need to prevent support for Russia's war machine.
The Central Statistics Office (CSO) is working to clarify export figures provided by Aughinish Alumina after Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke claimed the Co Limerick-based company's data was incorrect. The Irish Times reported 83% of Irish alumina went to Russia in Q1 this year, with 0.6% to the EU. Burke stated the true figure was about 45% to Russia and 45% to the EU and other countries.
The Department of Enterprise confirmed a discrepancy in Aughinish Alumina's export figures and is seeking rectification with state bodies. The CSO, which compiles statistics from customs data, has not yet received amendments and is verifying revised figures with the customs authority. Traders are required to submit accurate data under EU regulation.
An Irish Times investigation in March, with the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project, found Aughinish was shipping alumina to Russian smelters for aluminium production, which is then sold to ASK, a supplier for Russian arms manufacturers. This has led to calls from EU lawmakers to sanction alumina, though Irish Government Ministers argue it would harm Europe more than Russia.
Minister Burke stated he has no information suggesting Irish alumina exported to Russia is used for weapons against Ukraine. His department is conducting an investigation into Aughinish Alumina, with findings to be shared with the European Commission. The Embassy of Ukraine in Ireland welcomed the investigation, emphasizing the need to prevent commercial activities from sustaining Russia's military capabilities.