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8/4/2005
Protesters on Alcoa Fjardaál construction site
Earlier today 13 foreign protesters entered the Alcoa Fjardaál aluminum smelter construction site in Reydarfjördur. Three of them climbed up tall construction cranes, while others roamed around the worksite. Both the work done on the site and the large amount of heavy equipment there could constitute a hazard if people who are unfamiliar with operations are in the area. In order to prevent possible accidents or injuries to protesters and to guarantee employee safety, work was halted on the site immediately.
The police were called and asked to assist in removing the protesters, who were on the construction site without permission. The police escorted those on the ground away from the site immediately and removed the protesters on the cranes from the area later on. Work did not commence again until the whereabouts of all unauthorized people on the site had been ascertained, so that they would not put themselves or others in danger. The company wishes to thank the police for handling this matter in a secure and safe manner.
Alcoa Fjardaál is relieved that there were no injuries to people but is distressed that measures such as these were adopted and that the individuals involved chose to further their cause in this fashion. The impact on the construction project is, at present, considered minor, and it has been decided not to press charges against the persons involved.
Alcoa and Alcoa Fjardaál have placed considerable emphasis on consultation and informative discussion, both with those who are in favor of the project and with those who are opposed. The company stresses strongly the importance of continuing such consultation and collaboration.
Further information can be obtained from:
Hrönn Pétursdóttir, Community Relations Manager, Alcoa Fjardaál, +354-690-2700
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