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Soon fewer strikes in public transportation?

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The Editor

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There's a little revolution brewing in the world of transportation. This Wednesday, January 14th, the deputies approved a draft in committee that would help regulate strikes — mainly in the rail sector — to limit them during certain times of the year that are considered more tense.

Strikes, especially in public transport like trains, are never a walk in the park. Especially when they always seem to pop up during a big holiday weekend or when a holiday day off conveniently falls right when we want to leave the capital for a few days. But a new proposed law could definitely make this frustrating situation disappear for good.


A long-awaited project

In April 2024, the Republicans introduced a special proposal to the Senate: to grant the State 30 days a year during which it could limit strikes in public transport, to ensure smooth travel during certain busy periods.

Ideas considered as "strategic" or "sensitive". There’s a desire to reduce the right to strike, primarily in rail transport, while air travel is explicitly excluded from the text. Nearly two years later, and after being reviewed in committee this week, the project will be up for debate in the Chamber on January 22.


A debate over a restriction

In reality, if the text is approved, the government would be able to define a 30-day calendar each year during which essential workers for transportation would not be allowed to strike for more than six hours a day, nor for more than seven consecutive days. These periods would only apply to public holidays, school vacations, elections, national competitions and exams, and other significant events. Similarly, the notice period for strikers would be extended from 48 to 72 hours to combat "sleeping notices." While some see this project as a way to preserve freedom of movement at all times, others view it as a restriction of a fundamental right: the right to strike. The

The debate is shaping up to be complex.