Brussels (The Brussels Moning Newspaper): Audi Brussels remains closed, with workers unable to enter. Unions demand clarity on the factory’s status before returning keys to 200 cars, while management seeks to restart operations.
Jan Batens from the Christian trade union said that everything is calm right now, but the factory is closed, meaning workers can’t go in. A bailiff came in for legal reasons, and today, volunteers aren’t getting paid, which is worrying. Starting tomorrow, they might look into temporary unemployment because of unavoidable issues. The factory will stay closed as management announced last night. Audi Brussels wanted to start working again in two shifts last week, but not enough workers were ready to come back to help deliver cars.
What is the current situation at the Audi Brussels factory?
Employees took the keys to 200 cars to keep things calm and make sure the cars didn’t leave. Baetens said the media got it wrong. Management wants the keys back by Afternoon, but that won’t happen right away because the unions want more information first. Baetens said on the radio that they need clear answers from management about whether the factory is closed.
Peter D’hoore from Audi Brussels said that they could ask for the keys back. He also mentioned that certain conditions need to be met before they can restart operations. This means that before production can begin again, there must be clear agreements and understanding between management and the employees. D’hoore emphasized the importance of having a good plan in place to ensure that everything runs smoothly when they do start up again.
Peter D’hoore from Audi Brussels said the factory can restart if two things happen, the employees want to work normally again, and the keys to the 200 cars are returned so they can be sent to dealers. The unions said the keys are locked inside the factory, and they can’t get them because the doors are closed. D’hoore is happy to take calls about this. He also mentioned that management wants to meet today to find ways to keep as many workers as possible. He believes it’s important for the factory and its employees to look good, especially since they are talking to potential investors, as showing that workers are still committed can help attract them.
