We guarantee all employees the right to freely express their own opinions, to join associations and to carry out union activities. In 2009, 55.3% of employees were members of a union organisation. We set aside specific areas for union activity and we grant permission to employees to conduct such activity, in accordance with the rules established by the legislation in force and by the labour contract for the industry.
Relations with union organisations, which are characterised by discussion on areas relating to the acquisition of Italgas and Stogit and the resulting reorganisation, have proceeded in a constructive manner. The debate between the parties has also been extended to other areas including renewal of the unitary trade union representatives (RSU), and safety, and locally on working hours and the impact of the organisational reviews implemented over the course of the year. In 2009, overall 229 meetings were held between the companies and union representatives.