Portugal: Fuel drivers agree to end strike August 19 /update 3

Event

Members of the National Hazardous Materials Drivers' Union (SNMMP) voted on Sunday, August 18, to suspend their indefinite strike to allow negotiations with their employer. The strike was lifted on Monday, August 19, and the government announced that fuel rationing will be eased throughout the coming days as supplies return to normal. Prime Minister António Costa also said that the energy crisis declared by the government will end at 23:59 (local time) on Monday. Negotiations between SNMMP and the National Association of Public Road Haulers (ANTRAM) are expected to be held on Tuesday, August 20. It is possible that the SNMMP will resume their strike if talks with ANTRAM break down.

Context

Fuel tanker drivers represented by SNMMP launched an indefinite strike on Monday, August 12, after negotiations for increased pay with the ANTRAM employer association failed. The strike caused the government to declare a national energy crisis and implement fuel rationing nationwide to prevent significant supply shortages. A previous strike was also launched on April 15, causing nationwide disruptions.

Advice

Individuals in Portugal are advised to monitor developments to the situation and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.