“Hydro has proven outstanding cooperation, engagement and transparency in Stade”, said Margrit Wetzel member of the German Bundestag, one year after the last extrusion billet was cast at the Elbewerk.
Hydro closed the plant due to high power prices. But there is a life afterwards.
On 20 December 2007, three prominent members of the 16-strong advisory board for Hydro’s scheme to create business and find jobs for the affected Stade workforce, made their feedback public in a press conference together with Hydro. They not only lauded the EUR 38 million social plan package that was financed by Hydro, but also the way in which Hydro managed and contributed to the restructuring process.
Exemplary cooperation
Gunter Armonat, former head of the District Council: “This effort was really worthwhile! Your openness in taking care of people’s fears and needs has been splendid. I appreciate how we first debated the problems very openly, if not aggressively – to find then exemplary ways of cooperation in finding opportunities to secure a future after the aluminium era in Stade. Today, also empowered by various other positive frame conditions, the chances for development here on the banks of the Elbe appear to be excellent.”
SPD-politician Margrit Wetzel underlined: “Hydro has managed to completely dismantle the barriers of distrust we initially set up against them – and turn the situation around completely. Hydro communicated well with all the parties involved and has maintained complete transparency at all times, informing us about all the different matters in this complex issue. Thank you again!”
35 years
In 35 years of primary aluminium production, in which a total of 2.2 million tonnes were produced, the Stade plant at times created employment for more than 500 people. By the end of 2006, 410 were still affected by the shutdown. One year later, 111 employees are still waiting for their next job opportunity, while being qualified and supported as employees in a transfer company. “This service will continue for one more year with another transfer company. 50 will actually make use of it,” said Irmtraud Pawlik, spokesperson for the management board of Hydro Aluminium Deutschland.
