Transport Workers on Strike Due to Stalled Negotiations
The Comisiones Obreras (CCOO) trade union has announced that transport workers in Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria will go on strike due to the “complete lack of progress in negotiations” since the beginning of the year. The aim is to establish a provincial agreement that improves and equalises conditions in the sector, which currently does not exist.
“Management has blocked the negotiation,” explains Ricardo Hernández, union representative for Comisiones Obreras at Intercity Bus Lanzarote.
Strike Dates and Hours
In Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, the strike will commence on 15 and 16 September, continuing with intermittent stoppages on subsequent days from 06:00 to 10:00 and 17:00 to 21:00 until the conflict is resolved.
In Gran Canaria, the strike will start on 17 and 18 September 2025, following the same intermittent schedule as in Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
Demands from Workers
Intercity transport workers are demanding a sectoral agreement that “remains valid until 2032” and guarantees the subrogation of personnel in the event of contract transfers or concessions.
This issue is particularly significant in Lanzarote, as the Cabildo is close to publishing a new contract for this service for the next fifteen years.
Additionally, they are requesting a reduction of the working week to 37.5 hours, in light of potential changes to the Workers’ Statute in that regard.
The common agreement would also ensure “salary convergence among all operators to prevent inequalities.”
Current Conditions and Disparities
When asked which island currently offers the best conditions for workers in the sector, Hernández notes that “drivers at Intercity Bus Lanzarote earn between €1,600 and €1,700 per month, factoring in overtime,” resulting in “€7,700 less per year than workers in the same sector in Gran Canaria.”
“The most unprotected are those in Lanzarote. Workers in Fuerteventura have better conditions but still earn less than those in Gran Canaria,” adds Hernández.
Legal Adaptations for Better Work-Life Balance
Furthermore, to enhance work-life balance, they are requesting that recent legal changes regarding permits and licenses be incorporated into the agreement, ensuring full compliance with current legislation already enjoyed by workers in Gran Canaria.
