Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper): At Audi Brussels, 3,000 jobs are at risk as the factory prepares to close by February 2025. Union rep Franky De Schrijver highlights escalating tensions amid ongoing negotiations.
At Audi Brussels in Vorst, discussions began on 14th November about a social plan for nearly 3,000 workers. The factory is currently shut down due to a strike by subcontractors, but hundreds of employees showed up to push for better negotiations. The meeting started calmly but became tense when management made an unsatisfactory proposal. Workers then blocked access to the factory and the meeting room, leading management to call the police, who cleared the area forcefully.
What are the implications of the Audi Brussels factory closure for 3,000 workers?
According to the police, a union representative was slightly injured during the protest at Audi Brussels when he was hit on the head while going outside. The meeting ended and peace returned after police escorted the management away. The management and unions still do not agree on negotiations. Audi Brussels announced plans to close the Vorst factory by February 28, 2025, and no investor has been found to take over. Negotiations are now focused on a social plan for about 3,000 employees, covering closure premiums and early retirement.
According to Rombaut the management and employees have very different demands. The unions want more than the law requires, asking for a fixed amount for each worker and extra for years of service. Audi’s management condemned the violent protests, stating they oppose violence during negotiations. They want to reach a social plan quickly and peacefully. Audi hasn’t shared more details about today’s events, as the investigation is still ongoing.
