Not ecstatic about Milanović’s election pledges, but hope for salvation

The workers of Željezara, Herbos, Segestica and other problematic firms in Sisak are not reassured their problems will soon be solved after meeting the Prime Minister Zoran Milanovic and the first Vice PM  Radimir Cacic. However, they are far more optimistic about the future.

The representatives of several trade unions who attended the talks claim they have not received false promises. They are convinced that the problems in economy have been specified and that there is will to help them being solved.

- The talks were open and serious, which brings hope. If the state issues energetic and other permits for Željezara Sisak within three months, which has been announced, there are better chances to find a buyer.  The encouraging fact is that a group led by a liable person will help remedy the difficulties – says Predrag Abramovic, the commissioner of SMH in the ironworks.

The announcement that the state as the major creditor will use its influence to prevent Herbos in bankruptcy from being liquidated has been received with optimism by the trade unions. The insolvency administrator Branko Petanjek thinks the production can partly be maintained.

– There has been a wave of bankruptcies in Sisak, which does not necessarily mean the liquidation of firms. Open negotiations and their specification give us hope that a lot can still be saved. I think this meeting in Sisak has generated a positive message – said Ivan Tomac, the president of the Independent trade union of EKN.