Economy Minister Olaf Lies has raised serious concerns regarding the Volkswagen Group's recent management decisions. The termination of the employment guarantee has disrupted the internal stability of the company, causing significant unrest among employees. Lies has called for urgent actions to prevent plant closures in Lower Saxony, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding jobs in the region. He believes that the Osnabrück location holds considerable potential for development.
Despite the challenges faced by the automotive industry, including a downturn in new car demand, Lies remains optimistic about a market recovery. He stresses the necessity for immediate impulses to boost consumer confidence and the advancement of sustainable electric vehicles. Quick compromises are essential to restore trust between the company and its workforce.
Lies has commended the collaborative efforts of the Social Democrats and Greens on the Volkswagen Supervisory Board, describing this unity as a promising signal from the state government to address the ongoing crisis. He has also reassured that the state’s investment in Meyer Werft remains secure despite the dissolution of the traffic light coalition. Overall, Lies' statements reflect a deep commitment to protecting jobs and fostering innovation within the automotive sector, while urging Volkswagen to reconsider its recent decisions to avert further disruptions.
