Union Talks Over Redcar Steel Plant

The SSI Redcar steel plant has provided thousands of jobs over the years to locals, but has recently announced the loss of 1,700 jobs. Their production has been ‘paused’ after a drop in world steel prices and poor trading conditions, with company officials unsure of when it will open up fully again. At the moment, only 450 people are keeping their jobs. Almost everyone within the local community is devastated with this news, as Redcar has a history of steelmaking. It is not only vital for the economy of the town, but it is also used as a trademark. The company is, however, mothballing – meaning that the site is maintained so that production can be restarted at some point by either the current or a new owner.

Union officials are said to be anticipating talks with executives of the plant on what can be done. Many people, including Frances O’Grady, the general secretary of the TUC, believe that pressure should be put on the government to ensure that the company is saved. They are going to be researching the sustainability of the steel industry, so as not to let the town’s progress go to waste. However, this will be a difficult and long process, which will undoubtedly affect many people along the way.