Rail union strike on November 5

There will be train services this Tuesday, 5 November, the rail authority NMBS said, but they could be severely disrupted, due to industrial action by the ASTB union. The union is protesting against the new rail timetable, which comes into force on 15 December, and which, ASTB says, will result in a reduction in break-times for train conductors.

ASTB is the smallest rail union, with about 500 members. However, its actions in the past have led to significant disruption. The SNCB/NMBS is warning passengers  that significant disturbances could take place and suggests “adequate precautions” by checking timetable information in real time via the website or the Twitter feed @be_rail.

Public transport user organisation TreinTramBus condemned the action, arguing that the union has not given sufficient notice to allow passengers to make alternative arrangements.

www.belgianrail.be