The transpo UTArt workers’ union has announced that drivers of long-distance coaches will begin an indefinite strike, ahead of the beginning of winter holidays on Monday.
Union boss Roberto Fernández signalled that the stoppage was due to a breakdown in talks concerning wage rises, and the failure to reach a deal with business leaders in the sector.
«We have been in talks for seven months without any solution for workers who every days see the purchasing power of their salaries deteriorate,» the official affirmed, warning that the stoppage could put in danger travel plans for the winter holidays.
Fernández announced the industrial action following a meeting at Government House with Cabinet Chief Jorge Capitanich and other politicians from the Transport Ministry, while adding that long-distance drivers were «tired» of the lack of progress in negotiations.
The UTA has demanded pay rises of 30 percent, plus expenses paid while on the road, for the 23,000 coach drivers it represents.
Source:Buenos Aires Herald