Poczta Polska, the national postal operator, is facing significant cuts as it rolls out its "Program Dobrowolnych Odejść" (Voluntary Departure Program) to address severe financial losses. Amidst growing unrest, thousands of employees are protesting these layoffs, fearing job insecurity and the company's future.
The layoffs, which could affect approximately 8,518 employees, stem from audacious financial challenges, with the company reporting staggering losses of 745 million zł (about $170 million) for the year 2023 alone. This news has sent waves of concern through the public and the workforce, culminating in demonstrations across the Warmia and Mazury regions, where labor unions have rallied to defend the rights of postal workers.
Piotr Moniuszko, head of the Free Trade Union of Postal Workers, described the situation starkly, stating, "First, we need to organize work properly. Then we can see which positions and which employees are unnecessary. But right now, it feels like they're taking an axe and chopping indiscriminately." His sentiments echo the frustrations of many employees who argue they are being coerced rather than voluntarily participating in the program.
Workers have voiced concerns to various media outlets, with some claiming the program is far from voluntary, likening it to pressure tactics and intimidation. Moniuszko confirmed this, emphasizing chaos within the decision-making process, indicating many employees shocked at being offered the program, with some receiving offers symbolic of their precarious job standing.
Adding nerves to the situation, Joanna Drozd, vice president of the company for human resources, expressed disappointment over the union's response to the layoffs. She argued the Voluntary Departure Program is "one of the mildest forms of employment reduction" and stated, "Employees have until now to submit applications for participation." Her comments reflect the company's internal strategy to smooth over the turbulent waters of public perception and address Union concerns.
This week, Deputy Minister of State Assets Zbigniew Ziejewski briefed the Sejm on the situation, asserting the company must focus on enhancing internal efficiency and creating new organizational structures. During the same session, he revealed around 2,400 employees had opted for voluntary departures from the program since its inception, reflecting the gravity of the situation.
Protests included representatives of NSZZ "Solidarność" and community members, emphasizing the historical significance of Poczta Polska as not just a postal service but as part of the socio-economic fabric of Poland. Janusz Szabowski, vice president of the Inter-Union NSZZ Solidarność Workers of Poczta Polska, was vocal about his fears during recent demonstrations, claiming, "The management of Poczta Polska, along with the government, wants to lay off thousands of employees. The consequences of poor management and inappropriate policies will always fall on workers. People are desperate right now as they have families to support and are faced with the threat of losing their jobs."
During protests throughout nine major cities, messages have emphasized the risk of "phasing out" Poczta Polska as a strategic state-owned company, which has historically provided connectivity, particularly to smaller towns where postal services remain a primary link to the outside world. "For towns like those across Warmia and Mazury, Poczta holds significant weight," Arent warned, underscoring how government actions today could impact the fabric of future state-run services.
The recent measures have not just implications for employees but also for numerous local economies dependent on postal services. The protests remain charged as workers, citizens, and union leaders continue to advocate actively against perceived threats to their future livelihoods and community stability.
Faced with stark realities such as significant layoffs and regional reliance on Poczta Polska, not to mention concurrent staff shortages amid operations, the path forward raises many questions about transparency and the future viability of the postal service. Many are left wondering: Can swift cuts truly salvage the historical institution's legacy, or will they merely lead to its decline? The friction between the government, management, and labor suggests difficult times lay ahead.
With nearly 62,000 employees relying on Poczta Polska for their livelihoods, and nearly 19,600 being postmen as of now, the ramifications of decisions made today could echo throughout the economy. Union protests are set to continue, reflecting the heated stakes for Poczta Polska and the dedication of its workforce to advocate for their rights.