SOIGNIES — Belgian blue stone quarrying firm Carrières du Hainaut located in Soignies, is poised to restructure its operations, potentially affecting 15% of its 400 employees. The announcement, which was made last week, has taken staff by surprise, according to the socialist trade union FGTB.
Stefano Fragapane, a representative of the FGTB, revealed on Tuesday that the company’s management confirmed the impending restructuring. Fragapane noted that the decision was driven by adverse market conditions and the firm’s lack of diversification within the stone industry.
“The news of the restructuring came unexpectedly,” Fragapane stated. “We understand that the company is facing significant challenges, but the way it was communicated to the employees has been troubling.”
The company’s management has cited the downturn in the stone market and the company’s inability to diversify as key factors behind the decision. These issues have prompted the need for a strategic overhaul, which could see a substantial reduction in the workforce.
In response to the announcement, union representatives have proposed several strategies to mitigate the social impact of the restructuring. Among the affected employees, approximately ten are already on pre-retirement notice, which may alleviate some of the immediate impact.
Other options being discussed include voluntary departures, reduced working hours, and work credits. The union aims to negotiate these alternatives with the company to protect as many jobs as possible and minimize the economic hardship on affected workers.
Union officials remain cautiously optimistic as they await further developments. A second meeting with the company’s management is scheduled for Thursday, where additional details about the social aspects of the restructuring are expected to be provided.
“While we are hopeful that the upcoming meeting will yield more information, we are also prepared to advocate strongly for measures that will lessen the impact on our members,” Fragapane said. “Our priority is to ensure that any restructuring plan takes into account the well-being of the workforce and provides fair solutions.”
The meeting on Thursday is anticipated to address not only the specifics of the workforce reduction but also the support mechanisms that will be put in place for affected employees.
The union’s ongoing dialogue with the company will be crucial in shaping the final outcome and ensuring that the restructuring process is handled with as much consideration and support as possible for those impacted.
As Carrières du Hainaut navigates through these challenging times, the focus remains on balancing the company’s needs with the welfare of its employees. The forthcoming discussions will play a pivotal role in determining the next steps and the broader implications for the quarrying firm’s workforce.
