The Autonomous Union of train drivers ASTB issued a strike notice for a 48-hour strike beginning at 3 am on Thursday 12 July. This comes in addition to a strike notice issued by the Independent Rail Staff Union OVS for a 48-hour strike from 3am on 10 July. Both unions want to take strike action as they reject managements’ proposals on train drivers’ wages.
Talks to resolve the dispute are scheduled for Tuesday. If they fail there will be disruption on the railways from 3am on Tuesday 10 July to 3am on Saturday 14 July.
Minimum service
Today’s strike action by the socialist union ACOD has led to many cancellation. However, the new system of offering a minimum services appears to have helped many to be able to get to work. Those not planning to strike were asked to inform the Belgian rail company NMBS 72 hours in advance. This allowed the rail company to draw up an emergency time table concentrating on rush hour services for commuters and services between the biggest cities outside the rush hour.
