Spanish Train Drivers Announce February Strike in Response to Deadly Railway Accidents

Train drivers in Spain have announced a three-day strike planned for February 9, 10, and 11, following two recent catastrophic railway accidents that resulted in the deaths of 44 people. The first accident, which occurred in Adamuz, claimed 43 lives, while a separate crash in Catalonia caused one more fatality.

The train drivers' union Semaf described these tragedies as a turning point and demanded urgent safety measures to protect both workers and passengers. They emphasized the ongoing deterioration of railway conditions, making the strike necessary to push for safer operations. Comisiones Obreras (CCOO), another railway union, also warned that safety improvements must be made, asserting their readiness to take strike action if these demands are not met.

In response, Transport Minister Óscar Puente acknowledged the concerns of the train drivers and unions but stated that a general strike was not the ideal solution. He expressed confidence in the Spanish railway system, describing it as a vital and generally reliable mode of transportation despite not being perfect. Minister Puente assured that his department would seek dialogue with the unions to prevent the strike through agreements addressing safety improvements.

This labor action underscores the heightened tensions following the deadly incidents, with union representatives pressing for comprehensive reforms to railway safety and maintenance standards to avoid future tragedies. The government is under increased pressure to act swiftly to restore confidence in Spain's rail network and protect its users and workers.