News War
Tönnies recruits refugee on Polish-Ukrainian border
Tönnies has become the target of criticism last week after it was announced that it is recruiting refugees as personnel on the Polish-Ukrainian border. In the Polish border town of Przemyśl, just across the border near Lviv, the company distributes flyers offering refugees a job offer.
Refugee organizations have little understanding for the action. They point out that the Ukrainians who have fled have ended up in a very chaotic situation. Having fled the war, they arrive in reception centers where they often have to stay for days before continuing their journey to a European country, usually Germany. People are in an emergency situation and offering work to such vulnerable people is called 'insensitive'.
Tönnies confirms action but 'only wants to help'
A spokesman for Tönnies has confirmed to German media that three employees of the company are active in the region. However, it is emphasized that the company mainly wants to help refugees with transport and shelter and that it offers people a future. According to the spokesperson, the company also pays €11 per hour, an amount that is above the minimum wage.
Moreover, according to Tönnies, the supply is not based on an inherent lack of labour. According to the company, there are currently enough people available and the offer that Tönnies makes is only intended to help people on the spot. However, the company says that on closer inspection, the action may be a bit 'too premature'. It wants to enter into discussions with politicians and authorities to make agreements in which area the right help can be provided.
Steve Wissink
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