Limerick mayor calls on Taoiseach to deal with uncertainty around Aughinish Alumina

Kenneth Fox

The Mayor of Limerick has written to the Taoiseach and Enterprise Minister, seeking a coordinated response to the uncertainty facing Aughinish Alumina workers.

Mayor John Moran is proposing a forum to improve communication between the government, the company, and local stakeholders, and to ensure the region is prepared for whatever decisions may emerge at a European level.

It comes as international discussions continue regarding possible sanctions affecting the facility.

In his letter, Mayor Moran proposes that a forum be established under the powers available to the Office of the Mayor to improve communication among Government, the company, and local stakeholders, and to ensure the region is fully prepared for whatever decisions may emerge at European level.

As is only possible for his unique role, he also triggered the need for consultation with his office under Section 35 of the Local Government (Mayor of Limerick) and Miscellaneous Provisions Act of 2024.

Mayor Moran said: "I know the uncertainty is weighing heavily on employees, their families, suppliers and the wider community. They deserve clear communication, and they deserve to know that every level of Government is preparing responsibly for every eventuality."

The Mayor stressed that his proposal is intended to complement the work already being undertaken by the Government.

"I appreciate the efforts that the Taoiseach, Minister Burke, and Minister Niall Collins have already made on this issue. My objective is to ensure that Limerick is informed, organised and ready to work constructively with the Government throughout this process."

Mayor Moran also reaffirmed his longstanding support for Ukraine.

"Since the beginning of Russia's illegal invasion, I have consistently stood with the people of Ukraine and have been honoured to receive recognition from the Ukrainian community for that support.

"Standing with Ukraine and standing with the workers and families of Aughinish Alumina are not conflicting positions. Ireland can continue to uphold its international responsibilities while also ensuring that communities like ours are not forgotten in the process."

The Mayor highlighted the importance of ensuring that any Government response fully recognises the strategic importance of Aughinish Alumina to the Mid-West economy and that appropriate planning begins now should further developments arise.

He suggests that regional employment and economic taskforce arrangements used previously by the Government could provide a useful model if circumstances require them.