Two rail unions, ACOD Spoor and ACV-Transcom, announced an eighteen strike days that will take place over the next five months on Friday. The unions are protesting against pension measures and budget cuts.
On Monday 17 March, all railway employees will strike. From April to July, the unions plan four strike days per month. Specific details for these days have not yet been released. Additionally, on 31 March, ACOD Spoor and ACV-Transcom will participate in the general public services strike.
The strike notices apply to all NMBS staff and workplaces, including its subsidiaries.
The unions oppose federal government measures affecting pension rights. "This is a flagrant breach of contract," they stated in a press release.
Moreover, the Arizona government’s budget trajectory indicates that the national railway (NMBS) must save €675 million over the next five years. "We know the drill by now: even fewer staff and greater productivity," said the socialist and Christian unions.
The unions confirmed that regular meetings are scheduled with Mobility Minister Jean-Luc Crucke (MR), but "still no news" from Pensions Minister Jan Jambon (N-VA).
