He cited the example of nuclear power stations where a lack of personnel could jeopardise safety. This consultation should guarantee the security of electricity supply for the country through a better programmed and regulated liberalisation process. Subsequently, on 1 March, Electrabel management appeared to give an undertaking in the electricity sector joint committee that the workforce reduction plan would be implemented without compulsory redundancies. Thus, management proposed alternatives such as full-time career breaks, helping employees set up their own businesses, early retirement formulae and other options. The union organisations favour solutions more oriented towards the collective redistribution of working hours.
Negotiations are under way.
Commentary Beyond the question of jobs, the question of energy management in Belgium is also raised by the liberalisation issue.