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Railway drivers' union issues new strike warning

If negotiations fail, Finland's rail traffic will effectively come to a standstill starting next Monday.

Ilmakuvassa on Helsingin päärautatieasema toukokuussa 2021.
Aerial view of Helsinki Central Railway Station, file photo taken in May 2021. Image: Silja Viitala / Yle
  • Yle News

RAU, the union representing railway engine drivers, has issued a new indefinite strike warning.

RAU said unless a collective bargaining agreement can be agreed with employer's group Palta, train engine drivers will drop tools on Monday 20 March until 31 March.

National mediator Anu Saajava has overseen the collective agreement negotiations between the train driver and employer groups, RAU explained in a press release issued on Tuesday.

The railway engine drivers' union has rejected two settlement proposals it deemed lacking.

RAU's chair, Tero Palomäki, said that he hopes a solution can be reached before next Monday, so that strikes can be avoided completely.

Palomäki noted that the union is particularly seeking agreement on improved working hours and a better parental leave arrangement.