Iceland: Unions call off 48-hour strike March 28

Event

The Efling and VR unions representing hotel workers and bus drivers called off a planned 48-hour strike scheduled to start on Thursday, March 28. Unions leaders canceled the work stoppage following five hours of negotiations with the SA employers’ association. However, additional strikes are planned throughout April and an indefinite strike will be launched on May 1 if an agreement is not reached. The next work stoppages are scheduled for Wednesday, April 3, through Friday, April 5. If the strikes are carried out, significant transportation disruptions are expected in Reykjavík. A full schedule of the strikes and the services that will be impacted can be found on the Efling website.

Context

Efling and VR, among several other unions, are calling for improved working conditions and increased wages for workers in the tourism industry. Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days to avoid the next round of strikes.

Advice

Individuals in Iceland are advised to monitor developments to the situation and plan for alternative modes of transportation if the strikes are held.