Belgian Airports Face ‘Major Disruption’ Amid Austerity Strike
Belgian airports are bracing for significant upheaval as unions initiate a three-day national strike. Here’s what you need to know:
– Reason for the Strike: The strike is a direct response to Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s austerity measures aimed at reducing Belgium’s debt by reforming labor laws, unemployment benefits, and pensions.
– Affected Sectors: Workers from various sectors, including education, healthcare, and waste management, are participating in the action, culminating in a general strike on Wednesday.
– Impact on Travel:
– All departure flights from Bruxelles-Zaventem and Charleroi airports are expected to be canceled on Wednesday.
– Eurostar services, including key routes between Brussels and Paris, are also facing delays due to the strike.
– Government’s Budget Agenda: The strike follows a recent budget agreement by De Wever’s administration, which aims to maintain the sustainability of Belgium’s welfare state. Currently, Belgium’s budget deficit is at 4.5% of GDP, with total debt reaching 104.7% of GDP, significantly over EU limits.
– Strike Timeline:
– Monday: National railroad company SNCB runs only one or two trains out of every three, with multiple Eurostar routes canceled.
– Tuesday: Public services like schools and hospitals join the action.
– Wednesday: A full general strike impacts all sectors, including the airports.
– Union Demands: The general workers union FGTB emphasizes core issues such as fair pensions, a fair wealth tax, and transparency regarding corporate subsidies.
As the strike progresses, expect ongoing disruptions, particularly at major transportation hubs. Brussels warns of disrupted services across public transport systems, and De Lijn has announced reduced bus and tram services in Flanders.