There was a sense of disbelief and outright anger when the outcome of the talks with Visteon management started to filter through to the Enfield site picket lines. The offer was for 90 days pay and a few extras, bizarrely for overtime worked when the workforce were already on short time working. The offer, if you can call it that, was immediately rejected by the workers’ representatives from all three plants.
The initial disappointment gave way to a renewed determination to continue the struggle. Barricades were erected to prevent the removal of machinery, and plans are being made to turn the focus onto Ford.
There have also been delegations and messages of support arriving at the site from European and international trade unionists. Matthias Fritz from IG Metal Stuttgart explained to the supporters gathered in Enfield the similar problems they are facing in various parts of Germany. He announced there is to be action throughout Europe protesting about job losses and the effects of the recession in general.
Kevin Nolan, the Enfield convenor, emphasised that the struggle was not just about Visteon but about all workers fighting the effects of the recession, a victory for the Visteon workers will be a victory for us all.
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