Trade unions: More jobs in European shipbuilding
IG Metall and the trade union federation Industriall Europe are calling for a stronger commitment to creating jobs in the European shipbuilding industry. "We need more shipbuilding in Europe, not less," emphasized the Co-General Secretary of Industriall Europe, Isabelle Barthès, after a two-day meeting of trade unions from various European countries in Kiel.
With their first-class expertise, shipyards are of strategic importance for energy supply, transportation and security in Europe. Barthès therefore appealed: "Now the European heads of state and government must take action and adopt a forward-looking plan for industrial investment that promotes a resilient, fair and sustainable future for European industry and our jobs."
The decision of the Federal Constitutional Court should not lead to a lack of money for investments in the future, emphasized Daniel Friedrich, District Director of IG Metall Küste. "We still need government support for the switch to more climate-friendly ship propulsion systems, new types of ships for the offshore industry, for example, and for securing financing for shipbuilding and the construction of offshore converter platforms."
According to Friedrich, the sector has lost thousands of industrial jobs in recent years. The task now is to preserve the remaining 15,000 jobs at German shipyards and to hire new people.
The European shipping industry associations should also advocate for increased investments, aligning with the trade unions' call for job creation. These associations could play a crucial role in international forums, pushing for favorable trade policies and agreements.
Following the trade unions' initiative, international shipping industry associations should collaborate to spearhead investments in eco-friendly ship technologies, thereby ensuring sustainability and job preservation across borders.
Source: www.dpa.com
