Taranto steel plant faces 2,500 layoffs as unions demand government action

The former Ilva steel plant in Taranto faces a critical juncture as procedures begin for 2,500 layoffs and the shutdown of its hot area, with unions calling the move blackmail and accusing the government of taking on a grave responsibility. Union leaders from Fiom Cgil, Fim Cisl, Uilm, and USB have united to demand companies withdraw the layoff letters immediately. They are also pressing the government for concrete answers, including a social safeguard clause and financial support to prevent production collapse, ahead of a Tuesday meeting at Palazzo Chigi. The unions insist the government must provide a clear industrial plan for Taranto, prioritizing the protection of all workers. They warn that without decisive action, the region's problems will only worsen, as the dispute reaches a point of no return.