General strike on 2 October: disruption to schools, healthcare and transport
The protest was organised primarily in response to the high cost of living and to call for a pay rise
The first strike of October is set to begin, marking the start of a month of industrial action that will affect various sectors over the coming weeks. The first day of general industrial action has been called by the Confederation of European Trade Unions, with the support of the Fi-si trade union.
Both public and private
Today’s strike affects both the public and private sectors and involves the railways, the health service and metalworkers, schools and local authorities, the police and private security firms, as well as seafarers and workers in agriculture and the livestock sector.
Protest over pay rises
The protest was organised primarily to highlight the high cost of living and to call for wage increases. The demands also include a push towards genuine energy independence and the adoption of policies to support business growth and competitiveness.
Transport, education and healthcare
As regards rail transport, the strike is limited to the period between 11.00 and 14.00, thereby partially limiting the overall impact and the disruption to passengers. Disruption, however, is expected to affect the entire school day, involving teaching, support and administrative staff at all levels of education.
Services in public offices, healthcare facilities and local health authorities (ASLs) will be at risk for 24 hours; however, essential minimum services and A&E services (emergency care, resuscitation and A&E medicine) will remain strictly guaranteed.
