PROTESTERS campaigning against the closure of Vestas Blades’ plant at Newport have been warned continued action could harm job prospects.
And climate change secretary of state Ed Miliband has agreed to meet an Isle of Wight delegation to discuss the closure of the wind turbine blade manufacturer with the loss of 600 jobs, alternative renewable energy strategies for the Island and creating jobs.
News of the meeting, on a date still to be fixed, came yesterday (Thursday) as the latest national day of protest included a march from Church Litten to County Hall.
But after meeting some of the employees who remain working, council leader Cllr David Pugh and deputy leader Cllr George Brown urged Islanders not to answer calls to blockade the company’s facility at St Cross.
They said they were alarmed by reports Islanders still employed by Vestas had been intimidated.
One employee, who wished to remain anonymous, told the CP: "We have had cameras pointed into our cars as we drove into work.
"Safety rails were unbolted on our marine transfer facility, which looked as though it could be sabotage. It could have been catastrophic."
He said a car, which was the only one in the car park with a Vestas ticket displayed, had also been badly vandalised.
"I find myself in fear of wearing any Vestas logo clothing outside or telling people where I work.
"Many of the people who lost their jobs were friends and I feel for them. To begin with, the protest was done with the right intention. The current action, however, is preventing the shipment of new development blades."
Cllr Brown, the council’s cabinet member with responsibility for the economy, said it would be another blow if obstructive tactics, especially by hardcore protesters from the mainland, denied Island-ers work opportunities.
"Intimidation of Vestas Technology workers at St Cross and prevention of legitimate use of facilities do not reflect the wishes of the majority," he said.
His sentiments were echoed by Cllr Pugh: "In my opinion, the protest, which began as a heartfelt and passionate campaign by Island workers has moved on to a whole new phase."
Reporter: martinn@iwcpmail.co.uk