Work gradually resumes at Brussels Audi factory

Work is due to gradually resume on a voluntary basis this Tuesday at Audi Brussels after a row between management and unions following notice of the plant’s intent to close.

Audi announced its intention to restructure the Brussels plant on 9 July, raising the threat of closure and the potential loss of 1,500 jobs from next October, followed by a further 1,100 next year.

The resumption of work follows a demonstration in the Belgian capital in support of Audi Brussels workers, and a third works council meeting will also be held on Tuesday to discuss the factory’s future.

“We know that there are leads for three investors or buyers, but we still don't have any concrete information about an Asian company and its degree of interest,” said Pascal Debrulle of the FGTB union.

CNE union’s Ludovic Pineurof said staff were still waiting for “concrete, credible and realistic alternatives”.

Debrulle said the voluntary resumption of work at the factory, which has sat idle since 9 July, extends to the majority of jobs at the plant but will also depend on the supply of parts by Audi's subcontractors.

Audi spokesperson Peter D'Hoore said there were enough willing employees for the restart, though declined to give exact figures.

“Normally, we produce 12 cars an hour, but we're not going to produce 100% straight away,” D’Hoore added.

“It's normal that after weeks at a standstill, we start up again gradually. However, the number of volunteers present this morning means that we can keep up with the curve.”

Only the staff who come to work are being paid, he added.