Today, Community Union General Secretary Michael J. Leahy is leading a delegation to Thailand for talks with SSI president Win Viriyaprapaikit about the rumoured interest in Teesside Cast Products (TCP). Mr Leahy will be joined by Teesside MPs Ian Swales and Tom Blenkinsop as well as local Corus union leader Geoff Waterfield and national officers for the GMB and Unite - Keith Hazlewood and Terry Pye.
The Teesside delegation have put out a statement ahead of their talks:
‘This is a critical juncture as the crucial jobs and skills base will not be secure until a deal is progressed. We are looking to offer every assistance to SSI if they are looking to purchase the steel plant. Not only does the plant have a reputation for high quality steel but the past year has shown the commitment and dedication of the workforce and the entire area to continuing steel making on Teesside.
We want to find out more about SSI and be sure that they could provide a strong and certain future for Teesside and ensure that 150 years of proud steel production has not been ended.
We are looking to take every opportunity to make progress and help get any deal done.’
Community Union General Secretary Michael J. Leahy OBE said:
‘We are looking forward to a productive and positive meeting in the interests of our members and the Teesside community.’
Let Community know when you've changed your details, so we can keep you up-to-date with news, events and action in your workplace