Shock and anger over Eon job losses

UNISON, the UK’s largest trade union, today called on the Government to step in and help save jobs at EON retail’s call centre in Rayleigh, Essex, after the company announced the closure of its call centre, with the loss of hundreds of jobs.

Dave Prentis, UNISON General Secretary, said:

"This announcement will come as a bitter blow and a terrible shock to call centre workers at Eon. Every redundancy is a personal tragedy, and the loss of hundreds of jobs will hit families in Rayleigh hard. Times are tough and there are very few alternative jobs out there.

"The fact that the company are creating jobs elsewhere will be cold comfort. It is very difficult for families to uproot themselves, and move hundreds of miles away. And local businesses and shops are set to suffer, as people will be struggling to pay for the bare essentials. Eon must think again. They could run a call centre from anywhere, so could chose to keep these jobs in Rayleigh.

"EON customers face big bills every month, and the company continues to make massive profits. They have no need to make these outrageous cuts. It is clear that the competitive market for energy has failed. It is time that the government stepped in and took drastic action to bring energy suppliers into line.

"We will be seeking meetings with the company, and working with our members to discuss the next steps we will be taking.”

ENDS