25 trade unionists from countries with businesses in both of the leading information and technology (ICT) companies met in the European Metalworkers’ Federation (EMF). The main point of the discussion for the trade unionists was the development of co-ordinated action European wide in order to rule out any possible negative effects of the Siemens’ communications branch and Nokia merger. The merger should be effective as of 1.01.07. The new global player will then have around 50,000 employees in total. During discussions with the managers of both companies, it has already been explained that up until 2010 there will be a 10-15% cutback of jobs. „There are certainly also prospects in this merger, but the highest priority for the European Metalworkers’ Federation is the sustainable security of the current jobs“; stated Peter Scherrer, the General Secretary of the EMF.

A reinforced co-ordination of all efforts to secure jobs, collective and company agreements was concluded at the meeting today. “We want employee representative rights and co-determination regulations on the different sites of both companies to be ensured and developed. Only when both employees and trade unions are informed and involved and that current rights and agreements remain, can such a merger be successful” stated Peter Scherrer. The representatives of the trade unions will now work on the development of a European framework agreement.
___________
PRESS 23/2006
The EMF is the representative body defending the interests of workers in the European metalworking industry. The EMF has a mandate for the external representation and coordination of the metalworkers' unions and a mandate to engage in bargaining at European level.

For further information:
Editor Peter Scherrer, EMF General Secretary