© Diana Hoffmann / RTL Archives
After 23 days of strike action at Ampacet, negotiations between the management and representatives of the Independent Luxembourg Trade Union Confederation (OGBL) are reportedly nearing a resolution, as confirmed by Minister of Labour Georges Mischo.
Since the start of the strike on 27 November, Ampacet Luxembourg workers, rallying in front of the factory entrance in Dudelange, have consistently emphasised their commitment to staying on strike until a satisfactory resolution is reached.
However, the prospect of spending Christmas in the cold seems to be diminishing, and Ampacet may avoid securing a place on the list of record strikes in Luxembourg. Notably, the longest strike in Luxembourg history was the tiler's strike in 1995, which lasted for 28 days.
Three pivotal meetings held on Tuesday, involving Ampacet, the Federation of Luxembourg Industrialists (FEDIL), and the OGBL, resulted in what Minister Georges Mischo described as "very constructive" discussions. The minister expressed optimism that this would bring a solution to the forefront, potentially putting an end to the prolonged strike at Ampacet.
Mischo also made a point of listing everything he as well as Minister of the Economy Lex Delles had done to resolve the situation, in a bid to disperse any "rumours" that "nothing had been done." The Minister stated that he reached out to the OGBL "on the second day of strike." On 6 December, Mischo claims to have written a letter to "both social partners." Last Friday, his staff scheduled the meetings that were held on Tuesday.
Behind the scenes, signs on Tuesday indicated a positive trajectory towards a resolution in the challenging social conflict between Ampacet's management and the Independent Luxembourg Trade Union Confederation (OGBL). While the management has been cautious, mainly expressing concerns about the "peaceful exercise of the right to strike," the OGBL is determined to safeguard its staff's interests while preventing a precedent of challenging collective labour agreements.
The conflict escalated four days before the strike began when Ampacet management unilaterally denounced the collective agreement, a move perceived by the OGBL as a "declaration of war on all employees" in the country.
Recent calls from the Minister of Labour, coupled with actions by strikers in front of the Chamber of Deputies, appear to have prompted both parties to return to the negotiating table last week. Discussions continued over the weekend, with optimism about reaching a resolution.
Stefan Osorio, deputy central secretary of the OGBL chemicals union, stated, "We're not yet at the point where we can present a result, but we're on the right track." Expressing confidence, he added, "I'm working on the assumption that we'll probably wrap things up before Christmas. At least I hope so."
With the support of the OGBL, the striking staff at the American plastics manufacturer is steadfast in their commitment not to cross a red line. Their primary focus is on reinstating the old collective labour agreement and achieving the promotions they have sought for months. The employees are advocating for a 2.5% pay rise and three additional days off for all 65 people working at Ampacet Luxembourg.
Related
Following 18-Day strike: Green Party presses for Ampacet resolution in Chamber of Deputies
Amid dispute at Ampacet: How do workers (and unions) strike in Luxembourg?
"We'll still be here at Christmas": Ampacet employees go on longest strike in Luxembourg since 1995
Strike at Ampacet: Management urges OGBL to exercise right to strike 'peacefully'
Ampacet: OGBL condemns 'unacceptable assaults on the right to strike'
Entrance blocked by protesters: Ampacet strike will continue "until the company makes a move"
Imminent strike at Ampacet Luxembourg: Unions decry 'declaration of war on all employees'
