Ghent – Around 220 former employees of the bankrupt auto glass manufacturer Soliver attended a job fair in Ghent this morning to explore new employment opportunities, reports 24brussels.
Soliver declared bankruptcy in early July, resulting in the loss of over 1,200 jobs due to the closure of its facilities in East and West Flanders.
The job fair offered approximately 220 positions from 33 participating firms, aimed specifically at former Soliver employees seeking new opportunities.
The auto glass factory in Zwijnaarde (Ghent) and Evergem notably lost about 800 jobs, while an earlier closure at the Rumbeke (Roeselare) facility accounted for an additional 400 job losses.
Approximately 50% of those who lost their jobs have since secured new employment, with one in three former workers in East Flanders successfully finding new positions.
The fair, held at the Ghent office of the former manufacturer, was organized to assist Soliver’s ex-employees in navigating their next steps towards employment, with support from Voka East Flanders, Unizo East Flanders, the VDAB (Flemish Employment and Vocational Training Service), and the city of Ghent.
At the fair, 33 companies presented around 220 job vacancies.
“And it’s a wide range of jobs,”
says Freddy Van Malderen, director of VDAB East Flanders.
“They’re primarily looking for maintenance technicians, operators, and logistics workers, but also bus drivers, shop assistants, and administrative staff.”
The VDAB expressed satisfaction with the turnout.
“Job seekers could practically apply immediately,”
states Sofie Smagghe of VDAB East Flanders.
“Companies posted their vacancies there, and there were introductory interviews with potential candidates. And some companies even scheduled a second interview.”
For those still searching, the process remains challenging.
“They’re wondering what’s still possible for them,”
adds Smagghe.
“That’s why they’re also looking for general information. With us, they could find general information about their careers and training programs. Because among those who lose their jobs, there are always those who start thinking about taking a different path. And in that case, training in a different sector can also offer many opportunities.”
How can workers from displaced Soliver apply for unemployment benefits?
To qualify for unemployment benefits, workers must be unemployed for a valid reason, such as the bankruptcy of their company, and must have met the required wages or hours linked to the state’s “base period.”
They will need to register at the relevant employment office, in this case, VDAB for Flanders, or the appropriate State Labor Department managing unemployment benefits.
Claims for unemployment benefits can be submitted online, via phone, or in person at the employment office. Required documents may include proof of previous employment, identification, and proof of residence. During their employment and while receiving benefits, workers must maintain valid work authorization. Non-citizens may also need to provide documentation regarding their legal status.
