Polish mining companies implement workforce reductions via redundancy programs

Polish mining companies, including PGE and Polska Grupa Górnicza (PGG), are implementing workforce reduction strategies through voluntary redundancy programs. These initiatives aim to manage the gradual phase-out of coal mining in regions like Silesia.

At the Bełchatów Mine, labor unions MZZ ‘Odkrywka’ and WZZ ‘Sierpień 80’ have requested a gross bonus of at least 2,500 PLN per worker for December. Union representatives argue that coal extraction has exceeded original plans—potentially reaching 28 to 30 million tons despite lower staffing levels—and are calling for improved health and safety conditions and better alignment between staffing levels and actual production.

Under current redundancy programs, some workers are opting for one-time severance payments of up to 170,000 PLN. However, accepting these payouts typically includes a lifelong ban on re-employment within the mining company's structures. While some workers are using the funds to transition into new careers, such as photography or real estate, the programs reflect the ongoing structural changes in the Polish energy and mining sectors.