A 29-year-old miner from the Polska Grupa Górnicza (PGG) has received a one-time severance payment of 170,000 zloty, but with a strict condition: he can never work in the mining industry again. Mateusz Moskwa, an electrician from a mine in Rybnik, is one of the first to take advantage of new social protection packages designed to ease the transition as Poland phases out coal mining.
The programme, launched after amendments to mining legislation, offers workers either long-term leave of up to five years or a lump-sum severance. Those who choose the payout must sign a document permanently banning them from any future employment in PGG’s mines. Moskwa told local media that the reactions to his decision have been mixed.
– Some congratulate me, others are counting how much money I got. Old acquaintances also got in touch – he said. He also noted that his move has motivated colleagues: two more from his section are already filing applications.
Severance as a launchpad for a new career
Moskwa plans to invest the money rather than spend it. – I want to buy land or some property near Rybnik. Part of the funds will probably go towards courses and further education. I treat the severance as a powerful boost for a new life – he emphasised. He currently earns income as a wedding photographer and video editor, claiming that with four weddings a month, he can earn three times his previous mining salary.
PGG is the country’s largest mining company, employing around 34,000 people. The company expects about 5,000 workers to leave in 2026 under the scheme. So far, 1,750 employees have applied for the packages, with 630 choosing the one-time payment.
Conditions of the payout and future of mining
The 170,000 zloty severance is available to employees who do not qualify for mining leave or leave for mechanical coal processing plant workers. Beneficiaries must meet specific criteria, including age and years of service. In addition, those opting for leave receive 80% of their regular pay for up to five years without having to work.
The programme is a key element of the social plan aimed at mitigating the impact of the coal phase-out in the Silesia region. Moskwa’s story illustrates how some miners are choosing a clean break, even if it means a permanent farewell to the pit.
Źródło: wnp.pl, Fot. Shutterstock
