Sulcis crisis and timely deployment of the Just Transition Fund
5.10.2022
Question for written answer E-003302/2022/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 138
Ignazio Corrao (Verts/ALE)
The last Monte Sinni coal mine in Sulcis Iglesiente (province of Carbonia-Iglesias) is set to phase out coal production by 2025. The mine currently employs 350 people, and its output is steadily declining.
The area has a high percentage of elderly people, few young graduates, a high youth unemployment rate (35.7%), low per capita income and overall a low quality of life.
The Commission[1] has therefore identified this area as a beneficiary of the Just Transition Fund.
Trade unions and workers at Portovesme Srl, in Sulcis, are currently taking industrial action after it was confirmed that the production line for lead will close in November, with 200 direct employees made redundant as a result.
Work has started on studies to convert these production lines to materials that are more in demand on the world market, in particular nickel and lithium, which are used in the production of modern electric accumulators (batteries).
In view of the above:
- 1.How will the Commission ensure timely deployment of the Fund for the benefit of these employees?
- 2.What progress has been made on drawing up territorial plans?
- 3.Does the Commission know whether the trade unions taking industrial action are involved in preparing the plans, and, if so, in what way?
- [1] Overview of Investment Guidance on the Just Transition Fund 21-27 – Annex D.