Government proposes tax changes to avert threatened transport strikes

The Czech government called an emergency meeting late Thursday to agree moves aimed at averting a threatened transport sector strike. It agreed a proposal to abolish proposed tax changes which are at the root of workers’ grievances about increased tax on employee benefits. The government proposal should be debated in parliament on Tuesday and Wednesday. The Dosia association of transport unions announced a strike on Monday morning from 4:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Union leaders cast doubt on whether the strike could be postponed by the government action. The head of the union representing train drivers expressed doubts Monday’s action would be called off, adding that parliament still had to vote on the tax changes. The government action might put off later action, he said. Union leaders have threatened to go on indefinite strike if their grievances are not addressed.

Author: Chris Johnstone