SETCa union delegates say they are deeply “disgusted” and “outraged” following being searched by security guards on Monday, shortly before the ordinary works council at Delhaize. “Management treats unions like terrorists”they protested in a press release.
Monday was held at the headquarters of the distributor an ordinary works council planned for a long time. Delegates mandated to attend the meeting were greeted by a “row of security guards”. The latter have “passably searched” them before they can enter the meeting room. These same guards then posted themselves inside to “monitor”, explain the unions.
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“Such practices are simply repugnant. Never in our union history have we had to deal with such disregard for social consultation”they denounced, while an extraordinary works council is scheduled for tomorrow / Tuesday at headquarters. “We refuse to participate in works council meetings in such a context and demand that Delhaize change its attitude”warns the SETCa.
Contacted by Belga, the management confirmed that it had called on security guards in order to “promote a calm climate and guarantee the safety of all those present at the various works councils”. This precautionary measure will be maintained during the next councils, including that of tomorrow / Tuesday, said the spokesperson for the sign with the lion, Roel Dekelver.
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Since the announcement by the management of the food group to franchise its 128 integrated stores, discontent has been rising among the unions, which are demanding the maintenance of integrated stores, the hiring under contract of bogus independents and additional recruitment in order to reduce the cost of work. Last week, the works council ended with a statement of total blockage. The unions have agreed on an action plan which they intend to deploy over the next few weeks.
