Portugal: Unionized rail workers to conduct nationwide strikes Oct. 24-Nov. 3

Unionized rail workers employed by Comboios de Portugal (CP), Portugal's primary passenger train operator, plan to hold nationwide strikes Oct. 24-Nov. 3. Members of the Itinerant Commercial Review Railway Union (SFRCI) representing ticketing staff are demanding improved remuneration and working conditions. CP has issued the following advisories for potential disruptions:

• Oct. 24-27: A partial strike may cause occasional disruptions on the Lisbon Urban and Lisbon to Algarve Intercidades services.

• Oct. 28-30: Industrial action will likely prompt disruptions on Regional, InterRegional, Coimbra Urban, and Porto Urban services.

• Oct. 31: A 24-hour strike will likely prompt severe disruptions nationwide, including on Alfa Pendular, Intercidades, Regional, InterRegional, Urbanos, and Internacional Celta services.

• Nov. 1-3: Following the 24-hour strike, lingering disruptions are possible, and a further partial strike may cause occasional disruptions on the Lisbon Urban and Lisbon to Algarve Intercidades services.

Unless averted, the strike action will likely disrupt rail services across Portugal. Officials may amend rail schedules during the affected time frame. Residual disruptions could occur in the hours after strike actions. Increased congestion is likely on other forms of transportation during the labor action. Picket protests are possible at major rail centers and in front of government buildings; heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near any demonstrations that materialize.