The trade union representatives from Spain, the UK, The Netherlands, German, France and Belgium clearly underlined their opposition to the sale of Airbus locations, plant closures and job cuts. The mood of the workers at Airbus locations has deteriorated considerably and feelings are coming to a head since the presentation of the Power 8 Plan in February. On the one hand, they hear talk of plans to sell plants, close plants and widespread job cuts under the Power 8 Programme and on the other hand they hear of shareholders’ dividends being distributed and Members of the Board of management receiving a „golden handshake“.

It is not only Airbus workers in Germany, France, the UK and Spain but also workers in Airbus supplier companies, e.g. in Belgium and the Netherlands, who have fears with regard to their future because up to 50% of the jobs in the supplier company locations are also under threat because of the Power 8 Programme. “Further mobilisation of the trade unions at European level is not to be excluded if management insists on carrying out its irresponsible plans”, stated Peter Scherrer, General Secretary of the EMF.

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PRESS 31/2007

The EMF is the representative body defending the interests of workers in the European metal 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 please contact:
Editor, Peter Scherrer, EMF General Secretary