There is a strong possibility that the port of Rotterdam will soon be largely idle. Port workers have indicated they want to go on strike in order to enforce a nine-year work guarantee. In total, port personnel will strike for six days.
Less work due to automation
It was recently announced that there will be more automation, which would mean a decline in employment. According to news agency ANP, an estimated 800 of 3,500 jobs will disappear if the arrival of a new terminals on the Second Maasvlakte goes ahead. The job shrinkage has gone down the wrong way with dock workers.
Strike demands
One of the strikers' demands is to make more room for younger staff by relieving older dockworkers more. That way, labour will be guaranteed. The cost of that plan is estimated at 50 to 60 million euros and will be passed on to the Port of Rotterdam Authority.
Actions unannounced
If it is up to trade union FNV, the strikes will continue. Trade union CNV has yet to deliberate on the matter. A special committee will determine which actions will be carried out. If the strikes go ahead, they will be carried out unannounced. That way, companies and ships cannot respond to the actions by, for example, diverting ships to another port. The effect is greater that way, according to FNV leader Niek Stam.
Port Authority not happy
The Port of Rotterdam Authority has indicated it is not at all happy with the strike plans. According to the harbour masters, the damage caused by the actions would damage the good name of the port. Ships are expected to prefer to sail to competing ports in the future. For this reason, the port authority has been in discussions for quite some time to prevent the strike and find a solution to the problem that has arisen.
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