Debeljak pleads to save jobs of Brodosplit’s workers

Brodosplit owner Tomislav Debeljak said today he is willing to endure anything to save the shipyard’s workforce.

Although the final decision lies with the government, Split’s City Council voted yesterday to revoke the concession of Brodosplit. The move came after controversy over the asbestos-laden ship Moby Drea, which Brodosplit had been contracted to refurbish. Following an outcry from activists, the vessel was towed from Croatian waters on Tuesday, dealing another blow to the financially struggling company.

Debeljak did not attend the City Council meeting due to a procedural issue. Instead, he held a press conference on Thursday, stating that he is willing to compromise with the city and has requested government support.

He defended keeping the shipyard open, citing the COVID-19 crisis and the war in Ukraine as major contributors to the company’s financial troubles.

When asked how Brodosplit shrank from 4,000 workers to 300 while accumulating €100 million in debt, Debeljak responded emotionally:

"If I am the problem… I've lost my brother and my father. There is nothing you can do to me. You can chop me into pieces and you won’t break me. I will endure whatever sacrifice is required, but please don’t destroy the most valuable thing you have: these shipbuilders who know how to make the best ships. Don’t lose them," he said, visibly moved.

Debeljak also urged the government to support the shipyard in building a residential cruiser already under contract, which requires government guarantees.