Socialist rail union to strike on 9 October

The socialist trade union CGSP, representing French-speaking staff of the national rail authority SNCB, has announced it will strike for 24 hours from 22.00 on 8 October to 22.00 on 9 October. The action is likely to cause severe disruption on the whole rail network.

CGSP is protesting against the plans of federal minister for mobility Jacqueline Galant, which a spokesperson described as “a haemorrhaging of personnel” to be avoided “at all costs”.

The Dutch-speaking wing of the union (ACOD Spoor) has called on its members not to join the strike, as talks continue on a proposed agreement. “We want to give these talks a chance,” the union said.

Despite being limited to half of the country, the action on Friday, 9 October, is likely to cause severe disruption to the all-important North-South connection through Brussels, which affects a large number of national rail routes. CGSP could, the union suggested, follow by with actions on 19 and 20 October, although it has issued no official warning.

SNCB warned of “severe commercial and financial consequences” on 9 October and advised passengers to seek alternative means of travel on the day.

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