The CNV union is considering calling off the planned strike in regional transport on election day next Wednesday. This was announced by CNV negotiator Hanane Chikhi. “The willingness to take action is still very high, but we are also not deaf to the many voices, including among our members outside public transport, to spare election day. We are discussing this with our members and colleagues at FNV. A final decision on this will follow as soon as possible.”
There are concerns, among other things, that the strike will make it more difficult for people with disabilities to vote. Petitions have been launched calling for no strike on election day for the Provincial Council and the water boards.
Regional transport has been on strike for some time to reinforce demands for better working conditions, but talks between unions and employers have stalled. On Wednesday, State Secretary Vivianne Heijnen (Infrastructure) called for an end to the strikes “in the interest of the traveler.” According to Heijnen, the parties must meet again at the table.
Workload
According to Chikhi, the conflict is not mainly about higher wages. “We should be able to get out of that, if the employers take another step. But what we especially want, and what employers have so far avoided, are firm agreements about tackling the sky-high workload. This has been a problem for years, as a result of which many drivers lose the pleasure of their work and are increasingly sick. Politicians must also realize this, which is ultimately responsible for these consequences of market forces in public transport.”
On Thursday there is a strike by Arriva train workers in the north of the country. As a result, fewer trains run. Due to the strike, the Keolis trains will also not run between Zwolle and Enschede and between Zwolle and Kampen. “We had a lot of strikers on our feet again today. The message to employers is clear. We will continue until we are confident that a good collective agreement is possible,” said Chikhi.