Campaign launched to simplify train ticket compensation

Rail authority NMBS should make it easier for passengers to request compensation for late or cancelled trains resulting from strike action, according to a new campaign by consumer organisation Test-Aankoop and public transport users’ groups TreinTramBus and Navetteurs.be. 

The groups launched the campaign this week with the distribution of flyers at several stations, including Gent-Sint-Pieters and Bruges. Further actions will take place on December 9, 12 and 16.

“Rail passengers in Belgium suffer these days in two ways: through repeated strikes and, very soon, through cost-cutting measures,” campaign organisers said in a statement. “In cases of delay and cancellation, passengers still have the right to compensation, even if the NMBS does invoke the excuse of force majeure to avoid having to pay out.”

The three groups have called on federal mobility minister Jacqueline Galant to simplify the compensation procedure, in line with recommendations previously made by the rail ombudsman. They also demand that compensation be paid in cash, rather than replacement tickets.

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