I attended the meeting tonight regarding Vestas. Matt, a worker/occupier from Vestas, spoke about events leading up to the occupation. The fact that 600+ workers losing their jobs will be detrimental to the local economy on the Isle of Wight.
Workers began holding meetings once made redundant (April ’09) so they organised, with around 20-30 workers intent on occupying the factory. On Monday 20th July management got wind that something was afoot and demanded that the workers sign a document saying they would be against an occupation. Only 2 people signed!
On Monday 20th they occupied. The workers have been shown global support and solidarity for their brave stance over this. The hypocrisy by NL is astounding especially arguing for more ‘green jobs’ and then making Vestas workers’ redundant. Keep the pressure up on Ed Miliband.
Withthis continued support it gives the occupiers further strength, and they are courageous people taking a principled stand. Vestas is an anti-union company, Unite have been trying to organise there and people who have previously joined the union end up getting the sack on other charges. They have been getting help and support from Visteon workers as well, so alliances have been made there.
Matt received thunderous applause and a standing ovation. Again, solidarity comrades in your struggle. And this is the 4th occupation so far this year (Visteon (car parts manufacturer) plants in the UK in addition to action at Waterford Crystal in Ireland and Prisme Packaging in Dundee.). Direct action tactic has been developed over the year in response to recession, redundancies and unemployment. All power to the workers!
Unfortunately, legal papers have been served, a possession hearing is scheduled next Wednesday. Support is vital.
A protest has been organised for next Tuesday outside DECC (Ed Miliband’s Department of Energy and Climate Change) @ 6pm to hand a letter to Miliband about Vestas.
Getting down to the Isle of Wight is vital to show the occupiers and workers that they are not alone in their struggle.
Chris Baugh (PCS) spoke about how imperative it is to build alliances and for the whole of the labour movement to work together in solidarity.
Seumas Milne spoke in relation to his excellent article in yesterday’s Guardian and today’s bluster in response from Ed Miliband. Jonathan Neale was very interesting on global warming, renewable energy and doomsday clock is ticking …. an environmental catastrophe is upon us….yet fighting for a more equitable and sustainable society just does not fit with the neoliberal agenda. All power to the markets while the environment burns!
We need to build a red/green alliance….
Some important links/articles:
