A major demonstration by trade unions will take place tomorrow (Wednesday 25 June). Big disruption is expected, particularly at the country’s airports. For the first time members of the liberal trade union ACLVB will join members of the Christian trade union ACV and the socialist trade union ABVV in a day of protest against the Federal Government’s austerity measures.
Disruption to flights, public transport and public services on Wednesday as unions stage national day of action
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While no nationwide strike has been called, the unions have filed a strike notice. This covers workers that wish to join the protest and those that do (and are union members) will receive strike pay. Wednesday’s demonstration will get under way at 10am from Brussels North Railway Station.
It will make its way through the city centre to Brussels South Station. Tens of thousands of trade unionists and others, including members of civil society groups are expected to take part in the protest march.
Big disruption to air travel
The most visible impact will be on air travel. Charleroi Airport (also sometimes referred to as Brussels South Airport) has cancelled all incoming and outgoing flights on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Brussels Airport at Zaventem (Flemish Brabant) says that it will cancel most departing passenger flights and that some arrivals may also be affected.
The impact will be less severe on public transport. The railways are expected to be running normally and the Flemish public transport company De Lijn expects to run a near-normal service. However, as during previous days of action there is expected to be severe disruption to services operated by the Brussels public transport company MIVB. Refuse collection in larger cities such as Antwerp and Brussels may also be affected by Wednesday’s action.
The unions accuse the Federal Government of reducing social expenditure while at the same time increasing spending on defence and allowing corporate profits to soar. They also criticise the lack of any serious dialogue between the government, employers and the unions.
Wednesday’s march is the 4th such demonstration since March. Previous demonstrations were held on 31 March, 29 April and 20 May.