Óscar Puente holds third round of negotiations with railway unions to prevent strike from 9 to 11 February

The minister held the third consecutive meeting with unions in Madrid, attended by representatives from CCOO, UGT and the Train Drivers’ Union (SEMAF), with the aim of avoiding the strike planned for 9 to 11 February.

The parties discussed workers’ demands to increase safety and improve rail services and infrastructure after the recent accidents. The unions consider the measures proposed by the Ministry — a possible increase in investment and an expansion of staff — insufficient to cancel the strike.

Puente stressed that the aim of negotiations is to find a compromise solution that satisfies workers and avoids interruptions to transport services. The unions, for their part, stated that the strike will remain in force until concrete agreements are reached on investment, safety and working conditions. New meetings have been scheduled for the coming days.