Segismundo García, owner of the renowned Sargadelos ceramics factories, has unexpectedly announced his resignation as CEO. The decision came immediately after yet another dispute with the labor inspection, which again raised concerns about workplace safety conditions. García not only stepped down from his position but also publicly demanded that his company be bought out by the state, and initiated a temporary shutdown at the oldest factory in Cervo (Cervo, Lugo).
In a letter sent to the court and employees, García explained that his drastic actions were prompted, in his words, by the ‘arrogance’ and ‘overconfidence’ of the inspectors. He stressed that his departure was not linked to financial difficulties: according to him, the company has no debts, maintains a solid cash flow, and is respected in the market. However, in the entrepreneur’s view, constant inspections and demands from regulatory authorities make continued management impossible.
Temporary production halt and staff reaction
Alongside his resignation announcement, García also launched the ERTE procedure (temporary layoff) at the Cervo factory. From the 27th through mid-December, operations will be suspended, affecting 86 employees, most of whom are women. The reason given was labor inspection requirements tied to risks to workers’ health due to silica dust.
On Friday morning, workers arrived for their shift to find the company’s doors locked. Office and technical staff were allowed inside, while production employees remained waiting at the gates, recording their attendance. Tensions grew among the team, especially after one employee signed ERTE documents, sparking disputes among colleagues. Representatives of the CIG union returned to support the workers and express their dissatisfaction with management’s actions.
Longstanding conflict with inspectors and safety demands
The situation at the Sargadelos factory is not new: as far back as spring, labor inspectors had already raised concerns after cases of silicosis were found among female workers. Back then, García also sent employees home, but settled for a week-long leave rather than launching formal reductions. This time, inspectors arrived in protective suits to check that prescribed safety measures were being followed, as the factory is recognized as a cultural heritage site of Galicia.
The owner of the plant reacted sharply to the visit, accusing the inspectors of excessive strictness and bureaucracy. In his statement, he noted that regional authorities had promised to assist with the modernization of production, but the necessary work has yet to begin. At the same time, according to him, experts did not find any particularly hazardous substances at the facility. García suggested that, after a possible expropriation, the factory premises could be used for museum purposes or educational projects, where, as he ironically noted, “there would be no harmful particles.”
Authorities’ Response and the Future of the Plant
The head of the Galician government, Alfonso Rueda, called on all parties to abide by the law and stressed that regional authorities are ready to mediate the conflict. He reminded that in the spring, the administration had already helped find a temporary solution, but this time insists on full compliance with occupational safety requirements.
On Friday morning, García distributed copies of his letters to the media and employees, once again criticizing the complexity and contradictions of current legislation, and emphasizing that he was forced to halt production solely due to inspector orders. He expressed hope that the downtime would be temporary and assured that he is committed to protecting the health of the workforce.
Tense Atmosphere and Lack of Union Representation
The Sargadelos workforce has long lacked officially elected employee representatives, complicating dialogue between management and staff. According to union activists, García’s actions appear impulsive and unpredictable, while the ERTE process itself has left many confused and worried about the future of their jobs.
For now, the future of the factory in Cervo remains uncertain. Authorities have promised to intervene, but insist that all safety regulations must be followed. Despite stepping down, García still controls the majority of the company’s shares and does not rule out taking further action if the situation doesn’t improve. Workers are hoping for a quick resolution to the crisis and a return to stable employment.
