Lisbon Metro passengers face two more strikes before the end of the month, following the 24-hour stoppage that shut down the entire network on Wednesday.
Workers have submitted notices for partial strikes on Wednesday, October 28 and Friday, October 30, both running from 5am to 10am, the Lisbon Metro (Metropolitano de Lisboa) confirmed this Friday.
Unlike the October 14 strike, which brought the network to a complete standstill, there is a possibility that some trains could operate this time.
The Metro says it will ask the Arbitration Court to impose minimum services, arguing that this could reduce disruption while respecting workers’ right to strike.
The action is expected to affect the network during the morning commuting period. Under normal conditions, Lisbon Metro opens at 6.30am, meaning the walkouts cover the crucial start of daily operations.
The new strikes have been called over the same labour dispute that led to Wednesday’s shutdown.
Unions accuse management of failing to deliver adequate responses following an agreement reached on April 13, with complaints centred on working schedules, rest periods, overtime and what they describe as pressure placed on employees.
The Metro, however, says measures are already being implemented, including recruitment and training, proposed changes to schedules and improvements to shift management. It considers further strike action “disproportionate”, particularly given the disruption caused to passengers.
Management says talks with unions remain open.
Michael Bruxo
Journalist for the Portugal Resident.