Port Talbot steel workers call for protections for UK steel industry
The calls come as 3000 jobs at the Tata Steel at Port Talbot are at risk
Welsh steel workers from Tata Steel's plant in Port Talbot are calling on more support for the UK steel industry as thousands of job losses loom over the plant.
Workers represented by Unite the Union took place in a 'day of action' where they were stood on the Victoria Road footbridge in Port Talbot waving banners calling for more support.
It was announced that Port Talbot's steelworks will be given up to £500m by the UK government to keep the plant open and produce steel in a greener way, but at the cost of potentially thousands of jobs.
Unions were bracing for an employment announcement from Tata Steel on the 1st of November, with some members fearing the closure of large parts of the plant, however the announcement was delayed.
Since the announcement that up to 3000 jobs could go, Unite have been working with local groups in Port Talbot to show support for the workers, as part of the Worker's Plan for Steel Campaign.
Over 50 businesses and community groups, have signed up to Unite’s campaign including: Afan United & Aberavon Green Stars, Port Talbot Gas Welfare Club, Afan Ales and San Portablo Streetwear and Fashion.
Unite Union spokesperson Jason Bartlett spoke to us after Tata delayed their announcement, saying 'It's the uncertainty. We would rather have them come out and say exactly what was happening so we could deal with it. Whether it's good or bad, we need to know what the company's position is'.
'There was supposed to be announcement yesterday which was pulled last minute which has left a lot of people in the steel industry with uncertainty'.