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the European Commission has proposed to provide Belgium with €4.6 million from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund. This money should help nearly 2,300 former workers of Caterpillar Solar Gosselies and of several Caterpillar suppliers find new jobs.
EU Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs, Skills and Labour Mobility Marianne Thyssen commented:
“Thanks to the €4.6 million from the Globalization Adjustment Fund, we’ll be able to help former workers find new jobs or better job opportunities. From the very announcement of the closure of Caterpillar Gosselies in 2016, we have acted without delay to help the Belgian and Walloon authorities minimize as much as possible the devastating consequences for many of the redundant workers, by giving guidance on how to mobilise all European instruments available, including the European Globalization Adjustment Fund. We must show solidarity in times of hardship, to make sure no one is left behind. “
The measures co-financed by the Globalization Adjustment Fund would benefit 2,287 former workers and up to 300 young people not in employment, education or training (NEETs). They will receive active career guidance, help with their job search, vocational training and support for setting up their own business.
The total estimated cost of the package is €7.7 million, of which the EGF would provide €4.6 million. The remaining 40% would come from the regional budget of Wallonia. The proposal now goes to the European Parliament and the EU’s Council of Ministers for approval.
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