The Swiss steel industry needs political support
The planned restructuring highlights the critical situation of the Swiss steel industry. Steeltec in Emmenbrücke and Stahl Gerlafingen are both struggling with massive economic problems, in particular high energy costs and foreign competition distortions. The decisive action taken by employees and the broad public support in the case of Gerlafingen have led to Parliament now considering several urgent proposals to improve the framework conditions for steel production in Switzerland.
‘We are calling on the political decision-makers to act quickly. This is the only way to ensure that the Swiss steel industry not only survives but also emerges stronger in the future,’ says Pierre Derivaz of Angstellte Schweiz.
Furthermore, Angstellte Schweiz is pressing for the early conclusion of bilateral negotiations with the EU. A framework agreement with the EU will help to facilitate access to the EU single market, reduce distortions of competition and strengthen Switzerland's economic stability.
Short-time working instead of redundancies
In this situation, it is crucial that the steelworks do not reduce capacity and that valuable know-how is not lost. Steeltec should avoid redundancies and await the results of the political decisions that must be taken before the end of the year. Short-time working is an appropriate measure to maintain jobs. The Federal Council has extended the period for which energy-intensive companies can claim short-time working compensation to 18 months. It is important to ensure that this extension benefits all companies that need it.
Responsibility towards future generations
‘The CO2 balance of our steel industry stands up to any comparison – whether it's at Stahl Gerlafingen or Steeltec. These are the largest recycling companies in our country. We must act now to support these companies and their efforts. This is our obligation to the workforce – but also to future generations,’ summarises Pierre Derivaz.
Contact
Pierre Derivaz
Attorney at law, collective labour law & social partnership
pierre.derivaz@angestellte.ch, +41 44 360 11 52
Tanja Tanneberger
Communication Angstellte Schweiz
tanja.tanneberger@angestellte.ch, +41 44 366 11 21
