“This decision illustrates rogue capitalism”insists Gilles Bourdouleix, mayor (DVD) of Cholet, who came as soon as the closure of the Michelin factory was announced to share the anger and astonishment of the 955 employees. This passenger and light truck tire factory has been part of the industrial landscape of Cholet for 54 years. It must close its doors no later than the beginning of 2026.
The dejection is palpable in front of the factory. “Michelin, assassin! We are kicked out like trash”could be heard here and there in front of the factory “We knew it was going to happen but when they tell us it’s not the same thing”confides an employee. “The trauma is deep to have learned it through the press this weekend and to see it confirmed today in haste by the management of the company”we say at the CFDT.
“We all knew it”
“We will try to organize the fight to keep our jobs since Michelin is a group which is not in financial difficulties, capable of keeping our jobs and continuing to pay us”supports David Goubault, CGT secretary of the site. An immediate strike has been initiated to influence the negotiations that will begin, while a permanent strike is organized to block stocks already produced. “The difficulties on this site have existed for many yearsalso accuses Gilles Bourdouleix. We all knew it. Unfortunately, I deplore the group’s strategic choice of not having invested and reoriented new, more profitable and more flourishing activities in historic sites like that of Cholet.
“Michelin bears responsibility for this brutal decision. Everything must be done to avoid a complete closure of the site and study all alternative solutions to preserve the site and existing jobs.estimates Guillaume Garot, MP (PS) for Mayenne, leader of the opposition in the Pays de la Loire region. “Michelin has a responsibility towards the region and its employees. The industrial site cannot be closed without all options being put on the table and negotiated with employees.adds Céline Véron regional councilor (Public Square) of Maine-et-Loire. “No employee should be left without a solution and the Cholet site must retain its industrial vocation,” adds Véronique Mahé, another regional elected official (PC).
Reindustrialization
Christelle Morançais, Horizon president of the Pays de la Loire region recognizes “extremely hard news for employees and our territory”. The elected official is already planning on reindustrializing the site. “I will mobilize all our regional tools, in conjunction with Michelin and the State, to support employeesshe maintains. Our determination to write the future of this major industrial site for the Region and France is absolutely total.” As for the prefect of Maine-et-Loire, Philippe Chopin, he also notes “a radical decision” Who “calls for an exemplary support plan from the group for employees and the territories concerned, as the group has been able to do previously.”
Source: www.usinenouvelle.com
