Bottle collectors launch seven-day strike in Amsterdam amid controversy

Garbage piles in Amsterdam (archive photo) Photo: DutchNews.nl

Garbage collectors in Amsterdam have launched a seven-day strike in the final stages of a dispute over wages and conditions.

The FNV unions also announced suspensions in Leiden starting Tuesday and Den Bosch from Wednesday.

Household garbage collection has been suspended and street bins will not be emptied during the suspension, but in Amsterdam the union has agreed to continue cleaning street markets at the end of the day.

The union is demanding a 12% wage increase for all staff, compensation for future inflation and maintenance of sickness benefits for those who have been out of work for more than the legal two years.

VNG, which is negotiating on behalf of the local government, has proposed a 5% salary increase from February 1 and a further 3% increase in April 2024.

FNV Negotiator marieke manshot he said: “It is unbelievable that the VNG has let this continue and has not taken our demands seriously. Members are more motivated to take action.

Trash bags piled up on the streets during strikes in Utrecht, Rotterdam and The Hague earlier this month.

Amsterdam is urging households to keep waste out during the strike. However, the council also says that, except in extreme cases, inspectors will not fine those who violate the rules.