Public transport users in Italy are bracing for disruptions as two significant strikes are set to impact services in Genoa and across Eav-operated lines this weekend. Scheduled for March 21 and 22, 2025, the strikes are driven by labor concerns among public transport workers.
On March 21, a four-hour strike has been organized by the Ugl Autoferro union in Genoa from 11:30 to 15:30. This action seeks to address increasing safety concerns for drivers against aggression from passengers. According to reports, the urban transport staff on shifts will participate in the strike, and for those on intermediate shifts, the walkout will occur during the second part of their shift. While ticket office services will be operational until 12:15, urban transport services will maintain essential routes, particularly for individuals with disabilities.
In provincial transport, the timing will differ: staff will strike from 10:30 to 14:30, with ticket office personnel ceasing operations from 10:30 to 14:00. Additionally, transport services for the Genova-Casella railway will cease from 11:30 to 15:30. Past strikes in the region have seen varying levels of participation, the most recent on September 18, 2023, during which 24.82% of urban operators participated and 19.27% of provincial operators.
Concurrently, on March 22, Eav transport workers will also engage in a four-hour strike from 19:40 to 23:40, following a declaration by the Orsa trade union. In a statement released by Eav, it clarified that the resume of transport services during this time will hinge significantly on the number of participating workers.
Both unions echo a common theme in their grievances: an urgent call for more robust protective measures for transport workers facing aggression. "If we do not act now to ensure the safety of our drivers, we risk increasing violence on the public transport system," stated a representative from Ugl Autoferro.
As these strikes come into play, commuters are urged to adjust their travel plans accordingly, as disruptions could lead to longer wait times and potential cancellations. The challenges facing public transport are further compounded by a national 24-hour strike planned by Cobas Lavoro Privato, Adl Cobas, Sgb, and Cub Trasporti unions, which will coincide with the local actions on March 21.
While strike days typically pose inconvenience, the unions assert that these actions are a necessary call to action to elevate workplace safety and labor rights throughout the transport sector. The issue at hand not only concerns labor relations but also speaks to the broader societal implications of ensuring safety for those serving the public daily.
In the end, as more cities grapple with similar challenges, the outcomes from these strikes may very well set a precedent for labor negotiations across the transportation industry. Organizers stress that without significant changes, the future of public transportation could be jeopardized, turning what should be an accessible service into a risky endeavor for both operators and commuters alike.
