When a multinational corporation threatened to close a factory in Italy, workers fought back with a plan for a green transition solution. Their rank and-file collective explains why their vision matters to workers everywhere.
In October a UK trade union delegation visited our former GKN auto components factory near Florence.
The plant was owned by GKN, a British multinational automotive company. In 2018, the UK-based investment firm Melrose purchased GKN and closed the plant in 2021.
The struggle of the factory’s workers is at a crucial stage. We have occupied the site for three years and have developed to convert the factory to produce solar panels and cargo bikes instead of luxury car parts.
We formed a cooperative, receiving donations of over €1 million from social movements in Italy and beyond, and gaining investors for €6 million. The owners have no plan. They have kept the factory unproductive. For a year they have kept us without a salary, waiting for us to quit.
The only people with a plan are the workers. Local institutions are taking timid steps towards a positive resolution. National government is totally absent. We must confront those in power with their responsibilities.
Do they want to leave an environmental disaster, and the loss of 500 jobs, at a time when so many sectors are in crisis? Or will they provide a positive example by allowing the green conversion of the factory?
Our fight is in danger. We recently discovered that the plant was secretly sold in March – with the threat of it becoming a mere real-estate speculation.
■ Read more and find out how you can support: FBU supports Italian GKN workers’ struggle for jobs and climate justice | Fire Brigades Union
