An tOrd Gnó - Order of Business (Resumed)
Seanad Éireann — 2026-06-09
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Aubrey McCarthy (IND), University of Dublin

I want to raise a matter of huge concern that has been reported in the newspapers recently and was even on "Morning Ireland" this morning, namely, the Aughinish Alumina factory in Limerick.
The reports suggest that the plant is shipping vast amounts of alumina to be smelted in Russia where it is then used to manufacture aluminium which is then sold to a trading company supplying dozens of Russian arms manufacturers. The CSO figures for the first quarter of this year show that 83% of the factory's total exports were shipped to Russia. The company has said since that was a mistake and a clerical error. I am a convener of the Ukraine group. Ireland has been unwavering in its support for Ukraine and we cannot allow confusion about figures or statistics to obscure the truth. If material is being exported from Ireland and is contributing, whether directly or indirectly, to Russia's capacity to sustain its war against Ukraine, that has to be taken with the utmost seriousness. I call on the Acting Leader to arrange a full debate on the matter. The Department of enterprise is conducting an investigation which must be transparent and independent and conclude without delay. Our integrity and solidarity with the Ukrainian people deserves full transparency.
I also want to mention the tragic death of Alex Coughlan following an assault in Blanchardstown recently. There is a police investigation. When something like this happens, we all express our shock and offer our condolences, and then it seems that we move on until the next time it happens. We need to start asking ourselves why this is happening and why it keeps happening. Alex Coughlan, whom I did not know, was a son, brother and friend. He seems to have been a remarkable individual. He was described as caring and selfless. An article mentioned how he carried an organ donation card. A number of people were thus helped after his death. His family now faces the loss of a loved one and had to face a horrendous funeral. We need to have an honest conversation in the House about violence in our communities.
I have spoken in the House about one-punch attacks which seem to be a part of life, yet we are losing people. Every act of violence leaves victims, families and communities carrying the consequences. We need stronger support for young people, early intervention when problems emerge and a clear message that violence is never acceptable and is certainly not entertainment. I heard videos were shared, which is appalling. My thoughts are with Alex's family, friends and loved ones. I hope his family find peace.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/seanad/2026-06-09/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:55:01+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-06-09