Iceland gives green light to Alcan

The proposal for the construction of an aluminum factory in Reydarfjördur in the East Fjord region of Iceland was passed in Iceland’s parliament last week by a margin of 41 votes to nine.

The factory would be fed from electricity produced by the controversial Kárahnjúkar hydro-electric project.

A proposal by the leader of the Left Green Party, Steingrímur J. Sigfússon, to have a national vote on whether to move ahead with plans for the aluminum factory, was defeated by 35 votes to six.

“This is a tragic day,” protesters said when they learned the news of the vote.

Aluminum manufacturer Alcoa issued a statement about the decision, expressing pleasure. “The decision by Iceland’s parliament today will result in one of the most modern and competitive aluminum factories in the world. We are grateful for the support that we have received from Icelanders, and we look forward to taking an active part in the Icelandic economy.”