Pck Schwedt Droht Das Aus: „Dann Ist Hier Wieder Wüste“ – Betriebsrätin Über Ursachen & Folgen | Nds

Introduction

In the midst of a political storm, the PCK refinery in Schwedt, Germany, is facing an existential threat. Once hailed as an emblem of success in East Germany, the refinery is now under the administration of the Federal Network Agency, with its majority owner, the Russian corporation Rosneft, facing the prospect of expropriation. The root cause of this crisis is not economic, but political. In response to the conflict in Ukraine, the German government decided to stop importing Russian oil, leaving the PCK refinery on the brink of collapse. Peggy Lindemann, a lab technician at PCK and a member of the works council, understands the significance of this situation and laments the lack of support from both the government and the industry. In this article, we delve into the factors contributing to the refinery's demise and the profound implications it may have on the local community.

No Plan B: The Political Nature of the Crisis

The decision to halt the import of Russian oil was a political one, made in response to the conflict in Ukraine. However, as Lindemann points out, the German government failed to provide a viable alternative for the PCK refinery. The consequences of this decision are severe, with the refinery operating at only 60% capacity and struggling to secure alternative oil supplies. Lindemann reveals that promised replacement oil deliveries from Poland and Rostock are trickling in, highlighting the lack of urgency and commitment in addressing the crisis. The government's approach, characterized by empty promises and vague assurances, leaves the refinery hanging by a thread.

The Absurdity of the Situation: Germany's Selective Embargo

The absurdity of the situation becomes apparent when comparing Germany's embargo on Russian oil with the practices of other EU countries. While Germany refuses to accept tanker oil from Russia, it continues to receive oil through pipelines from other sources. Lindemann finds this discrepancy unsettling, suggesting that political ties and personal connections may be influencing the decision-making process. She questions the rationale behind such a selective embargo, arguing that it is Germany that ultimately stands to suffer the most.

The Impact on the Refinery and the Region

The PCK refinery's importance to the region cannot be overstated. Not only does it contribute significantly to the local economy, but it also fuels the majority of vehicles in Berlin and Brandenburg. Lindemann acknowledges that while other refineries in western Germany and Poland could potentially ramp up production to compensate, the loss of PCK would still have a detrimental impact on the local community. The refinery's closure would result in an exodus of young families, leading to a decline in population and the subsequent closure of schools. Moreover, the closure would also affect cultural and recreational institutions, such as the theater and sports clubs, which rely on support from the refinery.

Empty Promises and a Bleak Outlook

Lindemann expresses her skepticism regarding the promises made by Minister Habeck and the government's commitment to saving the refinery. While the workforce has been given a two-year salary guarantee, this temporary measure only delays the inevitable. Lindemann emphasizes that without concrete action, the refinery's fate is sealed. The government's assurances of maintaining the site, even if it becomes just a storage facility, offer little consolation. The lack of investment in green technologies and the absence of interested parties willing to rescue the refinery further compound the bleak outlook for its future.

Political Apathy and Misinformation

Lindemann highlights the frustration and disappointment of the workforce, who feel overlooked and deceived by the government. She notes that many of her colleagues still hold out hope that some benevolent force will intervene and rescue the refinery. However, she acknowledges the dangers of political apathy and the need for immediate action. Lindemann's criticism extends to the media, which she believes primarily reflects the government's perspective without giving adequate voice to the concerns of the refinery's employees. The pervasive fear of being labeled "Russian sympathizers" discourages open discussion and contributes to misinformation in the community.

The Polish Connection and Geopolitical Games

One potential lifeline for the PCK refinery comes from Poland, with the state-owned company PKN Orlen expressing interest in acquiring the facility. However, Lindemann is cautious about the implications of such a move, cautioning against becoming dependent on Poland's government. She points out that while Poland has been a major customer for the gasoline produced in Schwedt, their conditions for replacing Russian oil deliveries have been stringent. In contrast, Lindemann highlights Russia's uninterrupted oil supply over the past 60 years without any geopolitical conditions. The contrast between the two approaches further adds to Lindemann's skepticism about Poland's intentions.

An Uncertain Tomorrow

The impending closure of the PCK refinery brings back painful memories for the region, reminiscent of the disastrous deindustrialization that followed the reunification of Germany. Lindemann recalls stories of the fear and uncertainty that engulfed the workforce during that time, as they faced the prospect of unemployment and an uncertain future. Emphasizing the importance of the refinery to the community, she dismisses the option of leaving the area and stresses the need for immediate action to save it. Lindemann's hope for a miracle underscores the desperation that pervades the region and the longing for a more secure future.

Conclusion

The potential demise of the PCK refinery in Schwedt presents a grave crisis with wide-ranging consequences. Beyond the economic impact on the region, the closure of the refinery would devastate the community and uproot the lives of many. Lindemann's passionate plea for action and her criticism of the government's indifference highlight the urgency of finding a solution. As the fate of the refinery hangs in the balance, it is essential to remember that behind the statistics and political maneuvering, real people's lives and livelihoods are at stake. Without swift and decisive action, Schwedt may indeed become a desolate wasteland once again.

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