Crunch meeting set over future of Anglesey Aluminium

A crunch meeting on the future of Anglesey Aluminium’s remaining workforce was cancelled last week, but is due to take place this Friday.

But some of the remaining workers are already leaving, with the actual decision to close down the aluminium re-smelting line, still not been made by the company.

John Hamilton of Unite the Union told the Mail, that the meeting, planned for last, Wednesday, (February 13) had been cancelled and is now to take place on Friday.

Mr Hamilton, said: “The meeting was cancelled. The company has a board meeting on Thursday, and we meet again on Friday.

“It’s difficult to say what’s happening as there is no firm decision yet as to its future.”

A spokeswoman for Anglesey Aluminium, said: “In December we engaged in consultation with our workforce in an effort to identify options to ensure the future viability of its re-melt business in Holyhead, Anglesey. “Increased competition, a rise in material costs and a drop in demand for its products mean that the business is facing severe operating losses and joint discussions have been underway to try and find ways to ensure the viability of the remelt operation.

“Following a consultation meeting employees have been advised that there is strong likelihood of closure however the consultation process will continue and as soon as a final decision has been made AAM will make an announcement to their employees and various stakeholders.

“We understand that it is a difficult time for their employees and will continue to ensure that Health and Safety remains the priority at the plant and will continue to investigate any potential money saving and value creation opportunities put forward by the union and site representatives.”

Anglesey Aluminium is jointly owned by Rio Tinto Alcan and Kaiser Aluminium and was formed in 1971.