That's exactly what Fiat workers did yesterday, Autonews has learned. About 100 Fiat SpA workers from the Italian car manufacturer's auto plant at Pomigliano, near Naples tried to block the A1 motorway, Italy's main north-south highway. They were protesting against layoffs but their revolt had to face the police officers who immediately came at the scene. As a result of the clashes, seven of them were arrested for identification, the police reported.
More importantly, according to demonstrators' statements, it seems that blows were delivered but fortunately, no injuries have been reported so far. In addition, protesters were asked to clear the road
Nevertheless, protests are justified as Fiat announced on Wednesday it would stop production its Mirafiori plant at Turin for another two weeks in March. Consequently, 5,000 workers will have to stay at home.
Just as other automakers across the world, the Italian car manufacturer is facing serious problems due to weak demand. That's why, it is forced to resort to extreme measures as halting the production or unpleasant layoffs.
Certainly, this is not a reason of joy for the thousands of auto workers who see themselves without a job over night, with no bright perspectives in the near future.
However, there is still little hope for them thanks to the Fiat and Chrysler alliance which is likely to bring the Italian automaker an initial 35 percent equity interest in the Detroit car maker. As far as we know, the American manufacturer is fighting for survival as well, but who knows? Maybe a sparkling castle will be built out of two ruins...
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