Workers from the Kozienice power plant in central Poland, the Połaniec power plant in southeastern Poland, and the Bogdanka coal mine, the most active coal mine in eastern Poland, are demanding a 15% wage increase and discussions about the future of their workplaces.
They are concerned that the government intends to accelerate the reduction of coal mining.
The union members want to know the government's plans for the energy reform related to the so-called Green Deal, and what the future holds for jobs in coal-fired power plants and coal mines.
Demonstrators demand wage hikes and clarity on energy policy in Poland
The protesters are seeking a meeting with government representatives to discuss specific plans for energy transition and the funds allocated for this purpose.
Currently, energy and mining issues are managed by three ministries: the Ministry of Climate and Environment, the Ministry of State Assets, and the Ministry of Industry.
Since May, there have been discussions at the Ministry of State Assets regarding the future of Polish coal mines. The union members claim they have not been invited to these discussions.
Deputy Minister of State Assets Jacek Bartmiński commented on Polish Radio 24 that Tuesday's miners' protest is ethically justified, emphasizing the right of workers to express concerns about their future.
However, he added that, formally, the Minister of State Assets is not responsible for energy issues, and climate policy necessitates a gradual move away from coal.
Source: IAR/PAP/PR24
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