Alexandre Fernandes indicated that while unions do not yet have precise figures, the participation in the strike is “noteworthy,” despite “some attempts by government officials and other leaders” to discourage workers.
The coordinator of USAM made these remarks in front of the main building of Madeira’s Regional Government in Funchal, where dozens of union leaders gathered today in protest as part of the general strike in the public administration sector.
“We began the strike action at midnight and already recorded a 67% turnout rate, particularly in Funchal’s urban cleaning services, which we consider a strong participation,” stated Alexandre Fernandes. He noted, however, that while there are no definitive numbers for most sectors, such as health, education, and local administration, there are “very encouraging participation figures.”
The public administration general strike was called by the Common Front, representing 29 unions across all public administration sectors. It has gained the support of the National Union of Local and Regional Administration Workers (STAL), the National Federation of Teachers (Fenprof), and the Union Association of Tax and Customs Inspection Professionals (APIT).
Workers are demanding increased career recognition, salary raises, the defense of public services, the restoration of public links, and the repeal of the performance evaluation system (SIADAP).
The Common Front accuses the government of deteriorating working conditions and underfunding public services.
In Madeira, the Autonomous Region’s Health Service (Sesaram) warned users of potential disruptions to some primary and hospital health care services due to the strike and advised contacting services in advance to confirm the feasibility of receiving care.
