paroolOct 9, 2026, 10:08

Regional transport workers to strike one day a week until Christmas

Regional transport workers in the Netherlands are planning weekly strikes until Christmas to push for better working conditions, including lower work pressure and improved pay. Municipal city transport in Amsterdam is excluded from the action, which primarily affects regional bus operators throughout the country.

Regional transport workers across the Netherlands have announced plans to strike one day a week until Christmas to protest against working conditions and stagnant contract negotiations. The unions, including FNV and CNV, decided on this action after employers failed to meet an ultimatum regarding demands for reduced work pressure, better senior worker arrangements, and salary increases. Union representatives stated that they will announce strike dates at the last minute to prevent employers from preemptively creating emergency schedules. The strikes affect approximately 13,000 employees working for companies like Connexxion, EBS, Arriva, Qbuzz, and Keolis. While the action impacts regional routes in areas such as Haarlem and the Bollenstreek, municipal transit services in cities like Amsterdam are excluded from these specific strikes. The Association of Employers in Public Transport (VWOV) expressed regret over the decision, claiming their previous proposals were fair, while unions argue that current conditions are unsustainable and lead to high absenteeism among drivers.

Economy Business Amsterdam Haarlem Netherlands

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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