Miners union reject government terms and move towards a strike

Representatives of 13 trade unions took part in negotiations on Wednesday in Katowice with the government concerning the restructuring of the coal mining industry. The government announced its readiness to change its mining restructuring program, but only if the miners abandon their moves towards a strike. The Economy Ministry agreed to freeze its plans of closing down mines, which was scheduled to begin on January 1, 2003 and discuss the terms of pit closures closely with the unionists. The restructuring program envisages a decrease in coal output of 12.7 million tons by 2006. The unionists demand the formation of a Coal Company which would consolidate the five top mining companies, and associated subsidiaries, as well as state guarantees of alternative full-time job offers for those laid off. The government representatives agreed to such job offers only for workers from mines which will be completely closed, and not those which are just re structured. The signs of a possible agreement have not lead the unionists to moderate their stance. Today a strike ballot is being held. (Rzeczpospolita, p. B1; Puls Biznesu, p. 10) A.K.