Strike action is disrupting navigation on Flanders’ inland waterways. Some locks the length and breadth of northern Belgium are at a standstill after lockmasters walked out in a dispute with the Flemish authorities. Lockmasters are unhappy with planned changes to their statutes that kick in next year. The strikers claim there are problems with the new statutes that will lead to new recruits working under contract and not enjoying the benefits of life tenure as is currently the case. Remuneration is another point at issue. The unions have requested fresh talks.