Today, reps from Community and other steel unions met with Vaughan Gething, Minister for the Economy of Wales, to discuss concerns within the industry around increasing energy costs and its impact on steel production.
Alun Davies, National Officer of the steelworkers’ union Community, says:
“Rocketing energy costs are putting the future of our steel industry at risk. In some cases steel companies have stopped production, which is not sustainable and threatens jobs across Wales.
It was great to meet the Economy Minister, Vaughan Gething, today, to relay our members’ concerns and the concerns of our industry. Reps from Tata, Liberty and CELSA were able to convey the very real consequences that inaction could have. We are pleased to have the backing of the Welsh government on this critical issue.”
Vaughan Gething, Minister for the Economy of Wales, says:
“The steel industry is vitally important to the Welsh economy. I was pleased to convene a round-table meeting with our partners in the steel sector to discuss how increased energy costs are having a real impact on the sector. We also discussed the need for an industrial decarbonisation strategy for energy intensive industries.
I again call on the UK Government to support Welsh steel by taking immediate action to reduce energy costs. I also call on UK Ministers to urgently clarify how they will support the industry’s plans to decarbonise. This is vital in order to safeguard jobs now, and for securing the sector’s long-term sustainability.
The Welsh Government will continue to work closely with the sector and its trades unions to ensure Welsh steel has a bright future ahead of it.”
If you are a member of Community and need help or advice, please contact us at help@community-tu.org or on 0800 389 6332.
© Community Trade Union 2024