Major new strike called for Lisbon

During the stoppage, port workers will refuse to handle cargo if movement of that cargo is undertaken by non-port workers or road hauliers. Nor will they work in areas that require lower skill sets or in groups of workers that they consider inadequate for the task being undertaken.

The union is highly critical of the port operators in respect of negotiations surrounding the proposed new collective bargaining agreement being promoted by the Maritime Ministry.

It claims that the port operators have simply rejected proposals it has put forward, instead supporting a situation of worse working conditions and significantly lower wages.

The union rejects an initiative that would have seen the overall wage bill of the port of Lisbon reduced by €2m per annum and two new lower wage levels introduced.