Belgium: Protest in Brussels September 28; transportation affected /update 1

Event

Several trade unions representing civil servants are organizing a protest in Brussels for Friday, September 28. Police, fire, and military personnel, along with federal public workers, are being invited to attend a march which will begin on King Albert II Avenue near Brussels-Nord station at 10:30 (local time). Protesters will then walk to government offices at Parc de Bruxelles. Tunnels of the city's Inner Ring road will be closed on Friday morning; the E40 at Reyers and Cinquantenaire tunnels may also be affected. Significant traffic congestion along with disruptions to bus and tram services are to be anticipated. Local authorities have advised individuals to leave their vehicles at home and avoid the city center.

Additionally, Brussels-Zaventem International Airport (BRU) is warning that the police strike is expected to result in longer wait times at passport control points. Travelers leaving the Schengen Area are being advised to arrive at the airport earlier than normal.

Context

The unions are protesting the federal government's decision to abolish its sick leave scheme. On January 1, 2019, the current scheme which allows workers to rollover unused sick days into the next year will end. Union leaders claim that the decision was not agreed upon by the workers.

Advice

Individuals in Brussels are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and allow for extra time to reach their destinations.