Larsen Encourages BPA and Alcoa to Continue Working Toward a Long-Term Agreement
For Immediate Release
Contact: Amanda Mahnke
(202) 225-2605
January 22, 2009
Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement today regarding a letter he received from the BPA and Alcoa indicating that they were unable to reach an agreement within the existing timeframe on a deal to provide power to the Ferndale smelter from 2011 to 2028:
“It is disappointing that BPA and Alcoa have so far been unable to reach a long-term agreement to help keep family-wage jobs at the Ferndale smelter after 2011. However, I am encouraged that BPA and Alcoa have agreed to continue working toward a power contract that works for both parties.
“Although I recognize that the aluminum market has been hit hard by the current recession, it is important that BPA and Alcoa reach an agreement as soon as possible to provide long-term stability for Intalco workers and their families. I urge them to return to the table immediately.”