On Wednesday, PKP Cargo announced in a stock exchange communiqué that the company’s management has decided to implement mass layoffs, affecting up to 30% of its workforce. This translates to as many as 4,142 employees across various occupational groups losing their jobs.
The head of the train drivers’ union criticized the decision, stressing that an effective company recovery process requires a comprehensive recovery plan, of which employment restructuring might be a part, but cannot be the sole method. He stated, “We do not know of any recovery plan besides the restrictions affecting employees.”
Union leader Leszek Miętek expressed concerns over the management’s approach, noting that the same managerial team, responsible for the current situation, remains in place. “Apart from the company’s board, none of the management staff has changed. The hits are only on the employees. We don’t understand this,” Miętek added.
He emphasized that layoffs should be based on a recovery plan outlining the company’s future operations and structure. Miętek pointed out that of those affected by the so-called work suspension, 20% are administrative staff while 80% are operational workers, which he claims hampers PKP Cargo’s ability to service clients on time.
“The management wants to conduct mass layoffs without a recovery plan. We do not agree with this. This is not how you fix a company,” Miętek asserted.
He further highlighted the absence of a qualified individual within the company’s board, which includes members delegated from the supervisory board, to prepare a substantive recovery plan.