De sociale begeleiding der industriele herstructurering

Abstract

The shutdown of the mines affects the social climate in Southern Limburg to a large extent, necessitating intensive social assistance for all concerned. The author recognized 4 distinct phases in the restructuring process. Initially the Provincial Administration of Limburg studied possible social repercussions of the shutdown of mines on the miners, the other professional population, housing, municipal financial matters and mental public policies had to be developed. Thereafter a start was made to carry out the suggested plans and proposals and two management-advice committees were instituted for proper planning and execution of the projects. The third phase saw several additional measures and precautions which had not been taken into account before. For example, after it was found that some 4,500 semi-invalid workers would come out of the mines, special workshops had to be provided for, which operate satisfactorily due to the present favourable economic climate. Favourable economic conditions also are the reason for the successful placement of the other miners that became available on the labour market. Of course, much attention has been paid, in particular during the first years, to all other personnel which had to leave the mining industry. There was a definite need for advice on the legal status and assistance in legal and financial matters. In 1968 some 6,000 persons made use of a special office dealing with these matters, which was operated by the unions, but also assisted non-union members. One of the problems one had to face was the reduction of income the ex miners had to get used to when working in non-mining industries. Not only were the miners and their families suffering but so did other groups of the population in the area. The closure of the mines created initially a high rate of unemployment which, however, was rapidly reduced because people moved away from the region or started to commute to jobs outside the region. Certain difficulties remain, which are likely caused by divergencies in quality and basic education. Although on the one hand much money is needed to attract new industries, the financial position of the municipalities, on the other hand, deteriorated due to the closure of the mines. As a result the social infrastructure occasionally suffered, though about Hfl 30 million (US $ 8.4 million) was made available by the government during 1967-1970 for social projects. An important aspect of social welfare is the care of mental public health: the liquidation of an industry which provided a living for almost half of the South Limburg population inevitably has mental repercussions. Many people had to retire earlier than previously; for others the sense of security disappeared. In the framework of social welfare preventive measurements have to be taken, to be carried out by sociologists and social psychologists or psychiatrists. During the last three years much work has already been done; this, however, should also be continued. The fourth phase, which is starting today, involves the co-ordination and planning for the problems discussed above. A start had been made, appointments are carried through, the ultimate goal is not only to contain the problems but also to actively build a new society.