Workers warn the sale could put strategic assets at risk for national security

Altice Group workers in Portugal, through the union that represents them (STPT), sent a letter to the Prime Minister this Thursday requesting a position from the government regarding the possibility of carrying out an operation that would put strategic defense assets at risk. And national security.

In an open letter, the Altice Group workers union in Portugal urged the country to “ Responding to any operation that affects the availability of key infrastructure or strategic assets designated for defense and national security or the provision of basic services, especially in the field of communications.

The STPT takes advantage of the 2014 Decree Law that enables the government to “In exceptional circumstances and through a reasoned decision, oppose the conclusion of legal transactions that lead, directly or indirectly, to the acquisition of direct or indirect control over infrastructure or strategic assets, to the extent that such transactions Endangering national defense and security or the security of the country's supply of services deemed essential to the national interest.

This union considers that despite the situation in which the government finds itself (in administration), it is the responsibility of the Prime Minister (as he is responsible for the infrastructure portfolio, which includes the communications sector). “Initiate the process of assessing operations that may lead, directly or indirectly, to the control, directly or indirectly, of infrastructure or strategic assets by natural or legal persons from third countries in the European Union and the European Economic Area.”

Union officials say:there “There is a high probability that the implementation of such acts is already underway” in relation to Altice Portugal, which is why António Costa must, in the opinion of this entity, assess “the risks posed by such legal acts to national defense and security in the field of telecommunications in which the company operates.” “Altice Portugal” so that it can “exercise its opposition force.”

Regarding this process, the Japan meeting has already confirmed the existence of three non-binding proposals for Altice Portugal. Potential bidders could value Altice Portugal at around €7 billion to €9.5 billion, according to the same source. Drahi is selling at a time when the group is struggling with debt. Other phone companies and acquiring companies are also eyeing the unit.