Further train strikes to follow nine-day action

While the nine-day strike on the Belgian rail network ended this weekend, another one is planned for the second half of March.

Unions are striking because of a number of proposed measures by the incoming federal government, especially regarding changes to pensions that mean workers will have to work longer before they can retire.

Also of concern is Belgian railway operator SNCB’s plan to cut €675 million in costs, which unions say is bound to result in "even more expected productivity from even fewer staff".

While the recent nine-day strike was organised by smaller unions, all railway workers will strike on Monday 17 March and also take part in the general public services strike scheduled for 31 March.

The unions are threatening four strike days per month from April onwards, with a new strike notice filed that runs from Sunday 23 to Sunday 30 March.

During the recent strike, impact varied from day to day as SNCB and rail infrastructure manager Infrabel drew up a new timetable each day based on the available workforce.