At its automotive conference in Chemnitz, IG Metall called for the faster expansion of electromobility in order to secure jobs in eastern Germany. "Electromobility is the mobility of the future and a key industry, especially in eastern Germany," said Christiane Benner, the union's first chairwoman. Tens of thousands of jobs at manufacturers and suppliers depend on it. "Some of them are up to their necks in water."
Benner called both politicians and companies to account. "A lot needs to happen here at a political level - but companies must not rely on this, they must finally get started themselves." She called for investment and innovation to secure jobs instead of laying people off.
The district manager for Berlin, Brandenburg and Saxony, Jan Otto, warned of a "second de-industrialization in the East". Eastern Germany had built up a strong position by establishing new plants, which should not now be jeopardized. He demanded binding commitments from companies regarding locations and employment. The federal government must also quickly implement the announced purchase incentives for e-cars.
The conference was attended by trade union representatives as well as works councils, scientists and politicians.
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