90% of Solvay Logistics Staff Join Indefinite General Strike in Cantabria

In a significant show of solidarity, approximately 90% of the logistics staff at Solvay, a major chemical company, have joined an indefinite general strike that began on December 3, 2024. The strike involves employees of Katoen Natie, the logistics service provider contracted by Solvay for its operations in Barreda, Cantabria.

Background and Reasons for the Strike

The strike is supported by various trade unions, including the Unión General de Trabajadoras y Trabajadores (UGT), which has been vocal about the grievances of the workers. The primary reasons behind the strike are not explicitly detailed in the available reports, but it is understood to be related to labor conditions, possibly including issues such as wages, working hours, and job security.

Impact and Support

The high level of participation, with 90% of the logistics staff joining the strike, indicates strong support among the workers for the union's demands. This solidarity is crucial as the strike is indefinite, meaning it will continue until the workers' demands are met.

Location and Context

The strike is centered at Solvay's facility in Barreda, a town in the autonomous community of Cantabria, northern Spain. Solvay is a global chemical company with significant operations in various countries, and the logistics services provided by Katoen Natie are critical to its supply chain.

Community and Broader Implications

While the immediate impact of the strike is on the logistics operations of Solvay, it could have broader implications for the local economy and community. The strike may affect the supply of goods and services dependent on Solvay's production and distribution.

Upcoming Actions

In addition to the ongoing strike, other labor-related activities are planned in the region. For instance, the staff of Cantur, another local entity, is set to hold a concentration in Cabárceno on December 21 to protest the privatization of hospitality services at Alto Campoo, highlighting the broader labor tensions in the area.

The indefinite nature of the strike underscores the determination of the workers and the unions to address their concerns, and it remains to be seen how the situation will evolve in the coming days.