Strike

The work stoppage will last from Saturday 10:00 p.m. to Sunday 2:00 a.m. According to the union, this time frame was deliberately chosen because these shifts symbolize "the intensive and demanding labor in the port sector."

"Enough is enough," says FNV leader Niek Stam. "Our members work under harsh conditions with no prospect of a fair early retirement scheme. It’s time for action. We will not rest until a just solution is found."

The current Early Retirement Scheme (RVU) is set to expire at the end of next year. This scheme allows people who have been doing physically demanding work for a long time to retire earlier, with the right to a benefit to bridge the gap until they reach the state pension age. The unions have advocated for a more extensive and permanent arrangement, issuing an ultimatum to the government on May 1st. However, the government did not respond to the demand.

FNV announced more actions on Tuesday to push for a permanent Early Retirement Scheme (RVU). For instance, around 300 industrial workers in Emmen will go on strike on Monday, including employees from synthetic fiber producer Teijin Aramid and plastics manufacturer VDL Wientjes. On Thursday, about 200 workers from Chemie Park Delfzijl will follow suit.

“For the people in all these companies, it is essential that they can retire earlier,” explains FNV leader Joosje de Lang. “They perform physically demanding jobs, work in shifts, and are on call around the clock. The workload is immense, and it's nearly impossible to sustain. And I’m not even mentioning the impact on their health after retirement.”

The newly announced actions are part of a national week of strikes organized by the unions. Previously, work stoppages and strikes were reported in public transportation, construction, and several large metal companies.

Source: NT