Propietario de Sargadelos resuelve «vacaciones» la próxima semana, sindicatos advierten permiso pagado

The owner of Sargadelos, Segismundo García, sent a letter to the labor inspection warning that the following week had been established as a «vacation period» at Cervo Factory (Lugo). This decision, as stated in the letter, was made by Europe Press, contingent upon the deficiencies and issues identified being adequately addressed. If not, within less than 72 hours, the «vacation period» would commence.

Legally, an employee is entitled to know about their vacation two months in advance, or it should be stipulated in the collective agreement, meaning it would be a paid leave, according to sources consulted by Europe Press.

In a new letter sent on Friday by Segismundo García, the entrepreneur listed a series of circumstances at the plant that could impact the health of the workers, in addition to the 36 deficiencies already identified by the labor inspection, resulting in a fine of €5,000.

A labor inspection initiated an investigation into the company after confirming that two workers had developed silicosis. The inspection uncovered these cases of occupational disease in the factory and demanded that measures be taken by management to prevent further harm to the workforce. Segismundo García highlighted several «work hygiene issues that could seriously affect the health» of those working at the company.

Enumerating thirteen new factory problems, García emphasized concerns such as unattractive facades that could potentially expose employees and management to asbestos, as well as operating kitchen ovens at high temperatures without proper flame retardant equipment, risking slips, fractures, and other accidents due to slippery floors.

He also pointed out inadequate computer screen coverage exposing administrative staff to eye fatigue and possible cognitive and emotional issues, lack of air conditioning leading to discomfort in extreme temperatures, old and worn-out chairs causing potential back pain, and other issues affecting worker health and safety.

García also raised concerns about non-compliant doors and windows, wooden access doors at the production facilities hindering evacuation in case of fire, draining issues in the water systems, excessive noise levels in the battery mixing area, and extended standing periods causing musculoskeletal problems in packaging.

Moreover, difficulties in adapting an evacuation plan to current regulations due to the factory being a Cultural Interest Building (BIC), lack of overtime payment for management working over 40 hours a week, and inadequate communication with workers were highlighted in the letter.

The labor inspection was informed of these issues for proper action, and the labor authority was also notified of the established vacation period for the following week, which was legally impossible due to starting within less than 72 hours.

Workers returned to the factory on Friday around 7:15 am, but found production halted in certain departments and offices. Production had been suspended on Thursday following the owner’s challenge to the labor inspection’s requirements.

The workforce had been lacking company representation due to internal conflicts and allegations of union repression under the leadership of Rogelia Mariña. Representatives from CC.OO, CIG, and UGT visited the factory on both Thursday and Friday to advise workers on their rights and the steps taken by the labor inspector who appeared on the first day.

Neither the Xunta nor the Central Government addressed the lack of employment regulations necessary for the closure announced by Segismundo García initially. The Ministry of Labor requested an urgent meeting with the group’s management before the situation escalated, leaving open the possibility of Yolanda Diaz addressing the issue.

In media statements on Friday, Xorxe Caldeiro (CIG) described the situation as chaotic and evasive, with a lack of direct communication with workers. He criticized a meeting held the previous day as more of a reprimand than a constructive discussion.

Regarding the vacation situation, Caldeiro confirmed that the workers present at the gates in the morning had not received any communication about it.

Similarly, José Antonio Zan (CC.OO.) expressed concerns about the abrupt vacation announcement, emphasizing the need for a two-month notice period for such changes. He stressed the importance of dialogue with workers to resolve issues and ensure continued production.

Zan highlighted the need for transparent communication and collaboration to address the challenges faced by the workforce at Cervo Factory. 

FUENTE