Trade unions have officially announced a 24-hour public transport strike in Italy on Friday, 15th December. This is the rescheduling of a protest originally planned for 27th November.
The action will impact local bus, subway, and tram services, with schedules differing in various cities, including Rome and Milan.
The upcoming strike directly challenges Italy’s Transport Minister and Deputy Premier Matteo Salvini, who, in response to the initial planned action on 27th November, issued an injunction to reduce it from 24 hours to only four hours.
Salvini previously utilised the same mechanism to limit the impact of a general strike on the nation’s transport network, drawing frustration from trade unions.
In a statement released on the transport ministry website on 24th November, Salvini acknowledged the “sacrosanct” right to strike. However, he emphasised his commitment to minimising inconvenience for citizens, especially considering the increasing frequency of strikes affecting the transport sector.
Trade unions countered Salvini’s move, describing it as “anything but unexpected” while stressing the seriousness of his decision. They expressed their rejection of the reduction and issued a challenge to the minister with the upcoming action on December 15.
What are the expected strike times?
In Rome, the strike will affect ATAC and Roma TPL services from 08:30 to 17:00 and from 20:00 until the end of service. In Milan, scheduled disruptions to ATM transport services are from 08:45 to 15:00 and after 18:00. Naples guaranees its public transport network from 05:30 to 20:30 and from 17:00 to 20:00, as stated on the ANM website. For strike details in Turin, individuals should check the GTT website.
The unions’ decision to strike stems from various demands, including better pay, improved working conditions, increased workplace safety, and opposition to privatisation.
