Kerry Fine Gael MEP Seán Kelly has put his name to a joint statement expressing concern over exports from Aughinish Alumina.
The statement has been issued by the four Fine Gael MEPs, in response to reports the west Limerick plant may be exporting material that’s supporting Russia in the Ukraine war.
The Russian-owned plant is a significant employer in North Kerry and West Limerick, located off the N69 close to Askeaton.
The joint statement is from Fine Gael MEPs Seán Kelly, Maria Walsh, Regina Doherty, and Nina Carberry.
It says they are deeply concerned by reports suggesting that alumina exported from the Aughinish Alumina plant in Limerick may ultimately be supporting Russia’s brutal war of aggression against Ukraine.
Reports had suggested that the alumina which is extracted from bauxite at the plant, is being exported to Russia, where it is eventually used to support Russia’s war cause; the company has denied this.
The four MEPs say the reports relating to Aughinish are serious and it’s welcome they are being thoroughly investigated.
They say if it’s established that material exported from Ireland is contributing, directly or indirectly, to Russia’s capacity to sustain its war against Ukraine, then that must be taken with the utmost seriousness.
The representatives say they strongly support the robust EU sanctions that have been put in place since the invasion, and they fully support further measures that increase pressure on Russia.
They also said in the statement, that they reinforce their unwavering solidarity with the people of Ukraine.
It was reported last week that the European Commission would not be placing sanctions on the company at this time.
