Irish Government Accused of "Head-in-the-Sand Approach" to Alumina Exports to Russia

The Irish Government faces accusations of a "head-in-the-sand approach" regarding alumina exports from the Aughinish Alumina plant in Co Limerick, which reports link to the Russian weapons supply chain used in Ukraine. Social Democrats TD Cian O’Callaghan raised the issue in the Dáil on Thursday, citing an investigation by The Irish Times and OCCRP from March, which found Aughinish Alumina ships large quantities of alumina to Russian smelters. This alumina is then used to make aluminium sold to ASK, a company supplying Russian arms manufacturers.

Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke stated his department is investigating the matter, including seeking evidence from Ukraine. He noted that alumina trade is not restricted by EU sanctions, nor was it included in the latest proposed sanctions. Last week, The Irish Times also reported that Rusal, owner of Aughinish Alumina, remains controlled by sanctioned Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska, an ally of Vladimir Putin, according to a confidential Swedish tax authority report.

O’Callaghan highlighted Australia's immediate ban on alumina exports to Russia following the invasion, contrasting it with Ireland's stance. He asked if the Irish Government would halt exports. Burke affirmed his shared concern and explained the department's inquiry aims to impartially ascertain evidence, working with the European Commission, Swedish authorities, and Aughinish Alumina. He also noted Aughinish Alumina is Europe's largest alumina supplier, producing a critical raw material.

Burke confirmed discussions with the Ukrainian government to obtain evidence regarding the allegations. He added that a significant portion of the alumina is reimported into the EU from Russian smelters. Burke concluded that Ireland "will not tolerate in any shape or form if exports from Ireland are advancing the cause of the Russian aggression in Ukraine."