Madeira Public Transport Disrupted as Driver Strike Continues Amid Union Disputes
Funchal, Madeira – A two-day strike by the National Union of Drivers and other workers (SNMOT) is disrupting public transportation in Madeira, as negotiations with the public company Hours of Funchal, SA (HF) remain stalled. Despite efforts from the Regional Government and HF, the union has refused to suspend the strike, hindering progress toward improved working conditions for drivers.
The current impasse contrasts sharply with a recent agreement reached with the Road Workers’ Union and Metallurgical Activities of Madeira (Stramm) on Monday, June 23. That agreement, according to a release from the Regional Secretariat of Equipment and Infrastructures, guarantees a 20 euro salary increase with retroactive effect to January 2025 – representing a total increase of approximately 6% – for Stramm members.
Unfortunately, dialogue with SNMOT has proven ineffective. A senior official stated that the union has refused to suspend the strike and engage in negotiations, even issuing a public statement indicating it would “ignore the government of the Madeira region.” HF has consistently maintained its willingness to negotiate, but only on the condition that SNMOT first suspends the strike, citing a refusal to bargain under pressure.
Ongoing Negotiations with Other Operators
The Regional Secretariat of Equipment and Infrastructures also confirmed that discussions are “underway” with long-term operators CAM and Siga Rodoeste, coordinated by ACIF, the entity responsible for negotiations with their respective unions.
The Madeira Regional Government and HF have reiterated their commitment to finding a resolution. “The Madeira Regional Government and the company House of Funchal, SA underline their continuous availability for dialogue with all social partners, reinforcing the commitment to the valorization of workers and ensuring the provision of an efficient and stable public transport service,” reads a statement released earlier today. The statement also appeals for understanding from passengers affected by the disruption.
Strike Details and Union Demands
SNMOT initiated the two-day strike on Wednesday, June 25, and Thursday, June 26, for all workers at Funchal Hours. The union’s core demand centers on a salary update, which they claim has been ignored by regional authorities.
Regarding the agreement with Stramm, the Regional Government clarified that the 20 euro increase applies to the base salary and extends beyond union members to all unionized workers. This increase, combined with a previous adjustment earlier in the year, results in a total monthly base salary increase of approximately 6% (equivalent to +65 euros), exceeding the 2.3% inflation rate projected by the Banco de Portugal.
The situation remains fluid, and the impact of the strike on commuters and the wider Madeira economy is yet to be fully assessed.
