Hundreds of bus controllers across the Netherlands are preparing for industrial action following failed negotiations with transport authorities over critical workplace safety and employment conditions. The General Union of TCT Personnel announced this decision after an emergency general assembly held on Monday, citing systemic neglect of their longstanding grievances.
The labor dispute stems from a comprehensive list of twelve unresolved issues formally presented to Transport, Communication, and Tourism Minister Raymond Landveld last year. Union President Patricia Molgo’s detailed correspondence highlighted demands for permanent appointments, promotion opportunities, gratuity payments, transparent appointment procedures, reliable staff transportation, facility renovations, professional training programs, adequate work uniforms, and improved communication channels with management.
Approximately 300 controllers nationwide report escalating safety threats during fare inspection duties. Union Secretary Eugene Daniël revealed disturbing patterns of aggression from bus drivers, with two serious incidents occurring within February alone. ‘Controllers are being physically assaulted by drivers, and in one recent case, no arrests were made due to inadequate response from bus service leadership,’ Daniël stated. ‘We have exhausted all diplomatic avenues and now have no alternative but to take action.’
The union has scheduled a follow-up assembly to coordinate the specific nature and timing of the impending measures. This development signals growing tensions within the Dutch public transportation sector regarding worker protection protocols and employment security.