The Diocesan Commission for Justice and Peace and the Diocesan Commission for Pastoral Activities Among Workers expressed solidarity with the 700 workers from different workplaces who have been made redundant.

“In a moment like this, the commissions cannot but express deep solidarity with all the redundant workers and their families, and at the same time encourage all the political, economic and social partners to collectively seek an urgent solution to the creation of adequate employment that continues to respect the dignity of these workers, and that continues to guarantee for themselves and their families a dignified life and an income which does not create unnecessary hardship in meeting their financial commitments and responsibilities,” they said in a statement.

The Commissions noted “with satisfaction” that the government had already contacted the Employment and Training Corporation to mobilise its resources to find the workers alternative jobs, and the declaration that “if necessary, these workers will be provided with re-training through specifically allocated funds”.

The Commissions also emphasised the objectives of the common good whereby “riches fulfil their function of service to man when they are destined to produce benefits for others and for society” (Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church ref 328). In this respect, the Commissions appealed to the government to consider, during the transition to new employment, granting all possible financial benefits to the redundant workers to reduce their suffering.

The Commissions also appealed to the banks to consider a moratorium to the redundant workers who had bank loans and to possibly also subsidise interest charges until they are gainfully employed once again. Another appeal was made to employers, who were asked to consider creating on-the-job training with full remuneration to as many as possible of the redundant employees.