Lisbon faced significant disruptions today as Carris workers, including drivers and brakemen, participated in a 24-hour strike demanding salary increases and a reduction in weekly working hours to 35. The strike saw over 90% participation, causing a substantial reduction in bus and tram services across the city.

Key Takeaways

• Over 90% participation in the strike by Carris workers.
• Significant reduction in bus and tram services in Lisbon.
• Workers demand salary increases and a 35-hour work week.
• Plenary session scheduled to discuss further actions.

High Participation Rate

The strike, which began at 10 pm on Wednesday for network workers and at 3 am today for other traffic workers, saw a high participation rate. Manuel Leal from the Union of Road and Urban Transport Workers of Portugal (STRUP) reported that over 90% of workers joined the strike. This high level of participation led to a noticeable decrease in the number of buses and trams operating around 8 am.

Workers’ Demands

The primary demands of the striking workers include a real increase in wages and a reduction in weekly working hours to 35. The union has criticized the administration for its lack of response to these demands, prompting the 24-hour strike. A plenary session is scheduled to take place at Pontinha station at 10:30 am to discuss the situation and potential measures to further their cause.

Impact on Public Transport

The strike has caused significant disruptions to public transport in Lisbon. With fewer buses and trams running, commuters faced delays and inconvenience. The union’s decision to hold a 24-hour strike highlights the urgency and seriousness of their demands.

Future Actions

The outcome of the plenary session will likely determine the next steps in the workers’ struggle for better working conditions. The union has indicated that further actions may be taken if their demands are not met, signaling potential future disruptions to Lisbon’s public transport system.

Background

This strike follows a series of labor actions in Lisbon, including a recent strike by inspectors of the Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF) at Lisbon airport. The SEF strike, which began at 5 am, saw total adherence until 7 am and 90% participation thereafter. The SEF strike was part of a broader series of actions scheduled to continue through June at various airports and border posts across the country.

The high participation rates in both the Carris and SEF strikes underscore the growing discontent among workers in Lisbon and their determination to achieve better working conditions.

Conclusion

The 24-hour strike by Carris workers has significantly impacted public transport in Lisbon, with over 90% participation leading to reduced bus and tram services. The workers’ demands for salary increases and a 35-hour work week remain unmet, and further actions may be taken if the administration does not respond. The situation highlights the broader issue of labor dissatisfaction in Lisbon, as evidenced by recent strikes in other sectors.