08 Sep 2022 | 11:43 AM UTC
Netherlands: Unionized transport workers stage rolling nationwide strikes through Sept. 16 /update 2
Unionized transport workers in the Netherlands stage nationwide strikes throug Sept. 16; rail, bus, and tram service disruptions are likely.
Event
Unionized transport workers represented by the FNV Federation of Trade Unions are continuing a rolling series of strikes in different areas of the Netherlands, Sept. 8-16, in support of improved pay and working conditions. The strikes were announced in two separate phases (Sept. 6-9 and Sept. 13-16), and with the further threat of a national strike on Sept. 16. On Sept. 8, the national railway operator NS announced that no trains would run on Sept. 9, due to the cumulative effect of regional strikes.
To date, public transport network operators confirm that the strikes will affect the following specific areas:
Sept. 8: Gelderland, North Brabant, and Limburg.
Sept. 9: Friesland, Groningen, Drenthe, and Overijssel. The national rail network will not operate, with the potential exception of trains between Schiphol airport |(AMS) and Amsterdam.
Sept. 16: Utrecht citywide public transport.
The national railway operators have yet to confirm the local impact of the strikes in the following regions:
Sept. 13: north, south, and east.
Sept. 15: central region.
Citywide operators in Amsterdam (the GVB), Rotterdam (the RET), and The Hague (the HTM) will not be affected by the strikes, and services will run as normal.
Unless averted, the strikes will likely result in significant disruptions to rail, bus, and tram services in the affected regions, including delays and cancelations. Increased congestion is likely on available public transport services and other forms of transportation during the labor action. Heightened demand for alternative modes of transportation may also result in reduced taxi availability. Striking workers may demonstrate outside rail stations and government offices throughout the affected period.
Advice
Check service schedules prior to travel if traveling via public transport throughout the Netherlands through Sept. 16. Follow local travel and security advice. Consider alternative transport options, if necessary. Allow additional time for travel.
