Spain: Renfe railway workers plan strike April 17

Event

The Sindicato Español de Maquinistas y Ayudantes (Semaf) labor union representing Renef railway workers has brought forward a strike initially slated to take place on Tuesday, April 23. The work stoppage will instead take place on Wednesday, April 17. The strike will likely affect passengers leaving for Semana Santa, or Holy Week, holidays and may cause significant congestion for rail travel on Wednesday. Train delays, cancelations, and congestion is expected during the strike.

Context

Semaf is the largest union for Renfe employees. They are calling for a strike in response to lack of agreement between the union and the company and a "breach in the professional development" of workers.

Advice

Individuals in Spain are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate rail delays, cancelations, and congestion, and seek alternative modes of transportation or maintain a flexible itinerary.