People Before Profit Councillor Shaun Harkin said that Seagate in Derry must prioritise its efforts jobs and incomes at its Springtown plant.
Staff are bracing themselves for a possible announcement this week of jobs losses and cuts to wages.
Said the Foyleside councillor: “We send our solidarity to all Seagate workers and their families concerned at potential job losses and wage cuts.
“The company should provide immediate clarity as to its plans.
“People Before Profit has called for a meeting of all parties, Independents and Council officers with Seagate representatives to discuss concerns raised by workers.
“The Council must advocate for the protection of jobs and incomes to be the priority. This advocacy should extend to US Envoy Joe Kennedy following commitments he made during his recent visit to Derry.
“Workers have done nothing wrong and shouldn’t carry responsibility for corporate mismanagement.
“Seagate has been fined $300 million by the US government for violating export restrictions.
“This is the biggest fine ever imposed on a company by the US Department for Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security.
“The companies share price dipped 7% as a result of the fine.
“Clearly, those responsible for this decision should be held to account.
“Workers in Derry and across the north west shouldn’t be paying the price.
“The company has deep resources and is capable of protecting its dedicated workforce. Last year its revenues amounted to $13 B and profits were $1.7 B.
“The year before was even more successful – and that’s down to its workforce.
“Derry workers have been very good to Seagate for three decades.
“Hundreds of workers have called on Seagate to agree to formal trade union recognition and collective bargaining with UNITE.
“This uncertainty is exactly why having a trade union acting as the collective voice for workers is crucial.
“Otherwise, workers are at the mercy of Seagate corporate boardroom,” he added.
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