Ireland reviews alumina supply chain after Aughinish plant linked to Russian aluminium flows

Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheál Martin has expressed concern over reports that alumina produced at the Aughinish plant in Co Limerick may be entering supply chains connected to Russian aluminium production.

An investigation by The Irish Times, conducted with the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project, indicated that alumina shipments from the facility are supplied to smelters in Russia, where the material is processed into aluminium and later traded through intermediaries.

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The development has drawn attention to Ireland’s earlier position of supporting exemptions for the Aughinish Alumina facility from sanctions, given its role in the European industrial supply chain.

David O’Sullivan, the European Commission’s sanctions envoy, said that restrictions on alumina could be considered, which would affect its sale to Russia.

Speaking in Warsaw, Martin reiterated Ireland’s support for Ukraine and broader EU sanctions, while noting that alumina itself has not been subject to restrictions. He added that the Government would review the reports regarding the downstream use of the material.

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Martin also highlighted that alumina from the Limerick facility remains an important input within the wider European Union supply chain, supporting aluminium production across multiple markets.

Aughinish Alumina has declared its adherence to all European Union laws, encompassing sanctions and trade regulations. The company also implements due diligence protocols throughout its supply chain.

The Irish Government has announced that the investigation's conclusions will be examined by both the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Enterprise.

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