Portugal: Lisbon metro workers to stage a partial strike on Nov. 2 and a 24-hour strike on Nov. 4

Event

Metro workers in Lisbon, affiliated with the Federation of Transport and Communications Unions (FECTRANS), plan to strike the morning of Nov. 2 and the entire day on Nov. 4 to demand improved pay and working conditions. All employees will suspend work between the hours of 05:00 and 09:30 Nov. 2, while administrative, support, and technical workers will remain off the job from 09:30-12:30. The strike will likely disrupt services on the Yellow, Green, Blue, and Red lines. For the Nov. 4 action, metro workers are likely to suspend services from 23:00 Oct. 3 before resuming rail services from 06:30 Nov. 5, with workers possibly temporarily reopening metro lines between certain times. While the precise nature of the walkout is unclear, similar strikes on May 25 and June 24 led to the temporary suspension of metro services.

Overcrowding is likely on available modes of public transport in Lisbon during the morning rush hour on Nov. 2 and the entire day of Nov. 4. Increased demand for private transportation, including taxis and rental vehicles, is also possible. Traffic congestion will likely be heavier than usual in central Lisbon as more commuters resort to using their personal vehicles rather than public transport.

Rail workers may also hold protests on Nov. 2 and 4 during the labor actions. The largest gatherings are likely in major cities and towns, where protests may occur at government buildings and metro stations. Security forces will likely monitor protests and may try to disperse especially disruptive gatherings. Protests will likely proceed peacefully. Gatherings and resultant security responses may result in localized disruptions.

Advice

Allow additional time for travel to destinations throughout Lisbon, Nov. 2 and 4. Confirm taxi and rental car reservations. Exercise caution near protests. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near gatherings.