NS staff are planning to down tools yet again on Tuesday, June 17, marking the fourth strike this month, that’s right… four.
According to the FNV, this strike is set to affect regions in the east and northwest of the country, with services grinding to a halt even in key areas like Amsterdam and Schiphol. ✈️🙅♀️
Update: The NS has confirmed to the NOS that the strike will definitely go ahead on Tuesday, June 17.
Time to reroute your Tuesday
So if you were planning on catching a train, you may have to catch some alternative plans instead.
There is a glimmer of hope on the horizon, though.
The NOS reports that talks between NS and the unions are still on track today (Monday 16), so if they manage to iron things out, the strike might be derailed at the last minute. 🤞
@dutchreview But "concepts" won't get me home 😡 #dutchreview #fyp #netherlands #dutchlife #ns #trein #dutchstruggles #nederland #expatlife ♬ original sound – Chief Green Screens
So what’s the strike really about?
The trade unions VVMC, FNV, and CNV began striking due to dissatisfaction with how negotiations were going for a new deal affecting around 17,500 NS employees.
They’re asking for a 6% pay rise and better working conditions. The NS, in return, offered a modest 2.55%, which was later bumped up to 3.25% during the third strike on Friday (yes, we’re counting now).
So far, the unions aren’t biting, hence strike number four rolling into town. Or rather, not rolling. 😅
Have you been affected by these strikes so far? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.
