Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
160. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment when he will provide a clear timeline for an investigation into a company (details supplied); when Government will establish the facts regarding the company's exports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45654/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra165. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether officials from his Department will be assisted by European Commission officials in their investigation into alumina exports from Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45475/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra167. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the timeline in relation to his Department's investigation into the possibility of alumina exported from Ireland being used in Russia's arms industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45474/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 160, 165 and 167 together.
Ireland remains unequivocal in its continuing support for Ukraine after Russia’s unjustified invasion. I remind the Deputy that Aughinish Alumina is not subject to any sanctions by the EU and alumina is not a sanctioned good therefore its export to other countries, including Russia, is not restricted.
The Aughinish Alumina plant is Europe’s largest alumina refinery, being one of the most important suppliers to the EU aluminium sector. Since it began production in 1983, the plant has also been a supplier of energy as a byproduct from its Combined Heat and Power systems to the Irish national energy grid and is a significant employer in the Limerick area.
My Department is currently investigating the matters raised in a recent Irish Times report about Aughinish Alumina and its exports to Russia. I take the matter of potential sanctions violations very seriously. The report indicates the potential for the alumina being refined and ultimately processed into aluminium for use by the Russian military and sourced through a sanctioned entity.
Therefore, the Deputy will appreciate that this is a highly complex investigation, with multiple strands. It has necessitated my Department’s engagement with other bodies within the state and with other Member States, as well as with the company itself.
Officials within my Department are working independently on this investigation. Upon its conclusion, engagements will be had at official and political level with the European Commission to discuss as appropriate.
I cannot give a timeframe for the conclusion of my Department’s investigation. While the Department is working as quickly as possible, it is crucial that this investigation is carried out thoroughly and in line with due process where all aspects are considered. But you can rest assured that any and all appropriate actions will be taken further to its completion.
