Action stations in battle for Michelin jobs

Sir, – Michelin bosses’ decision to close the Dundee factory is a disgrace, demonstrating nothing but contempt for the workforce despite a recurring operating profit running into billions.

Derek Mackay, MSP and SNP finance secretary has announced he will head an action group to save the plant.

But looking to a government action group to “save” the plant is not the way forward. Where will Michelin workers find alternative work? Retraining in how to flip burgers or learning how to make your Universal Credit claim for dole money is a pretty dismal prospect.

A fight back is possible, led by the Unite trade union and supported by thousands of ordinary workers in Dundee. However, Michelin employees must first take the fight to their bosses.

Michelin’s plant and machinery is worth millions, not to mention the two wind turbines that dominate the Dundee landscape. Seizing control of this plant and machinery can be a powerful bargaining chip in the hands of the workforce.

If the greedy bosses won’t guarantee jobs and keep the factory open, then we must demand that the government immediately nationalise the company with no compensation.

If we can bail out banks and bankers to the tune of billions, then impose 10 years of austerity on workers to pay back the money, why can’t we bail out 845 workers and their families at Michelin?

Restructuring the plant to provide this service is possible, and could be achieved by a nationalised company and the highly skilled workforce.

Fight back and struggle is the only way forward.

Finance Secretary Derek Mackay at the Michelin factory last week.