An impending restructuring at Belgian blue stone quarrying firm Carrières du Hainaut (Hainaut Quarries), based in Soignies, could affect 15% of its 400 employees, according to socialist trade union FGTB.
The restructuring announcement, made last week, took staff by surprise, FGTB representative Stefano Fragapane said on Tuesday.
He added that the company's management confirmed its intention to carry out the restructuring on Tuesday, noting that business had suffered as a result of a challenging market and a lack of diversification in the stone sector.
Various strategies were proposed by the unions to minimise the social impact of the restructuring, according to Frangapane. He highlighted that about ten people among the affected 15% were already on pre-retirement notice. Other options discussed included voluntary departures, reduced working hours and work credits.
Union officials remained hopeful, while awaiting a second meeting with management, scheduled for Thursday. They said they expected to receive more information, particularly concerning the social aspects of the restructuring, at the upcoming meeting.
