Strike Set for Late June as Workers Demand Fair Pay
Public transport workers in Madeira are planning a 48-hour strike on June 25 and 26, accusing the Regional Government of refusing to listen to their demands for a small wage increase. The strike was announced by the National Union of Drivers and Other Workers (SNMOT) after weeks of silence from officials, including President Miguel Albuquerque.
The workers, employed by Horários do Funchal, are asking for a salary increase of around €30 a month, in line with recent changes to the national minimum wage. Union leader Manuel Oliveira says they gave the government a deadline - June 3 - to respond, but received no answer.
The workers of HF were taken by surprise by the unfortunate and misleading statements made by Dr. Miguel Albuquerque, which in no way reflect the truth of the facts.
Manuel Oliveira, (SNMOT), Diário de Notícias da Madeira
President Calls Union Pressure Blackmail
In response to the strike plans, President Miguel Albuquerque accused the union of trying to pressure the government. Speaking during a public appearance, he claimed the government will not be “blackmailed by unions” and warned that any negotiations must consider the financial limits of public and private companies.
Albuquerque expressed regret that this same union had gone on strike on the eve of regional elections and stated firmly that “the Government of Madeira will not be blackmailed by unions.”
His comments have caused anger among workers, who insist they are acting responsibly and are simply asking for a fair meeting.
Union: We Do Not Blackmail!
In a strong reply, the union said they are not involved in any political games and deeply reject the president’s words. They say they only want a fair chance to talk and reach a basic agreement.
We are not in a standoff; we are not blackmailing anyone. We are decent people, we are not troublemakers. Therefore, if there is no request for a meeting or negotiation, the union will proceed with the 48-hour strike.
Manuel Oliveira, (SNMOT), Diário de Notícias da Madeira
He added that the union is still open to discussion, but if no talks are scheduled, the 48-hour strike will go ahead without delay.
Long-Term Frustration Behind the Strike
This tension did not appear overnight. Workers have been protesting since the beginning of the year and are calling for updated wages and better communication. Since President Albuquerque returned to office in April, the union has repeatedly requested a meeting, but no official response has been given.
The statements made by Mr. Dr. Miguel Albuquerque are indistinguishable from those typically made by aspiring dictators.
The SNMOT does not take lessons in seriousness and credibility from Mr. Dr. Miguel Albuquerque — we do not recognize him as having that authority.
Manuel Oliveira, (SNMOT), Diário de Notícias da Madeira
For many of these workers, this is obviously about more than money - it’s about being respected and heard. With no signs of dialogue from the government, they know striking is the only way to make their voices count. The planned strike could affect thousands of passengers in Funchal and surrounding areas.
Care for a share?
Comments