Ostend (Brussels Morning Newspaper): De Lijn workers launched a surprise strike, disrupting coastal bus and tram services. Spokesperson Astrid Hulhoven seeks resolution, while unions warn of severe service cuts planned for next year.
De Lijn workers at coastal depots went on a surprise strike on 24th October Thursday in the morning. This caused problems for public transportation because early shift workers did not leave the depots. The strike affected bus and tram services along the coast, leaving many passengers without rides. It happened while the company and unions were talking about a new work schedule that would start in January.
Will De Lijn resolve strike issues?
According to De Lijn spokesperson Astrid Hulhoven, the strike was a surprise and discussions with the unions are ongoing. She hopes this will be a one-time event so the discussions can continue without issues. Hulhoven stressed the need for good communication to solve the problem and finalize the new work schedule, which is important for the company next year.
The unions have a different opinion. Petra Deporter from ACOD mentioned that after a week of discussions, management plans to cut a quarter of the coastal trams next year. She warned that this would be a disaster, especially during the holidays when many people will be at the coast without trams. The strike is also spreading to other depots in West Flanders, like Diksmuide and Ypres, and the technical department is joining in too. De Lijn’s management stated they don’t have enough money to keep the current tram services running.
