The conflict within the Canary Islands’ bus companies continues to escalate as the Workers' Commissions (CCOO) union announces changes to its strike days. While the strike scheduled for tomorrow (Thursday) has been suspended, industrial action remains planned for December 9th and 23rd, with the possibility of an indefinite strike if agreements are not reached.
This decision comes amid ongoing disputes with transport operators and a lack of progress on reducing retirement age coefficients for drivers, a key point of contention in the negotiations.
In a statement, the CCOO explained that the adjustment to the strike schedule is aimed at adopting a more sustainable approach to the conflict. The union emphasized, however, that the suspension of tomorrow’s strike does not signal a resolution, and additional strike actions remain under consideration if negotiations falter.
Impact on Public Transport Service
The strike adjustments aim to reduce disruptions for bus users, who rely heavily on public transport in urban areas. Nonetheless, uncertainty looms over the upcoming strike dates, raising concerns for both workers and passengers.
The resolution of this dispute will depend on the outcome of negotiations between unions, transport operators, and government entities. In the meantime, the bus sector remains a focal point in the wider discussion about labour rights and financial sustainability in public services.
The Core of the Dispute
The crux of the issue lies in the refusal of the passenger transport employers’ association, Confebus, to implement agreements reached in October. These agreements included measures to reduce retirement age for drivers without financial penalties.
The CCOO has accused major operators such as Alsa and Avanza of prioritising profits over employee welfare, dominating Confebus’s decision-making processes. The union also alleges that these operators are pressuring authorities to shoulder the financial burden of implementing the coefficients, further delaying negotiations and leaving workers in limbo.
Call for Government Intervention
The union has urged the Ministry of Transport and local governments in major cities to intervene, arguing that the transport companies should not have unchecked control over critical decisions affecting workers' rights and the public.
While CCOO continues its campaign, another union, CGT, has decided to suspend its strikes due to low participation and a need to reassess its strategy. Despite this pause, CGT clarified that it remains committed to the broader fight for improved conditions.
