Portugal's Historic General Strike Gains Momentum as Unions Unite Against Labor Reforms

CGTP Leader Declares Early Success for December General Strike

Tiago Oliveira, the secretary-general of Portugal's CGTP union, has announced that the general strike scheduled for December 11th is already demonstrating significant success. This marks a pivotal moment as it represents a joint action with UGT, breaking what Oliveira describes as the "silence surrounding the labor package."

Union Rejects Claims of Marginalization in Labor Negotiations

Oliveira firmly rejects suggestions that CGTP was sidelined during the labor package negotiations. He emphasizes that the union had already submitted proposals to the government to amend existing labor laws even before formal discussions began. "The government did not accept them," he lamented, highlighting a fundamental disagreement from the outset.

Key Points of Contention in Labor Reforms

The CGTP leader outlined several critical issues driving the strike action:

• Restoration of individual time banks
• Extension of fixed-term contract durations
• Simplification of dismissal procedures

Oliveira stressed that while CGTP has "no red lines" and remains open to negotiation, any discussions must start from addressing "what is currently penalizing workers."

Solidarity Between Major Unions

When questioned about government pressure on UGT to withdraw from the general strike, Oliveira expressed confidence in the unified stance of both major unions. "There is firmness in both centrals to proceed with the strike," he declared, signaling strong inter-union cooperation in challenging the proposed labor reforms.

This developing situation represents one of the most significant labor movements in recent Portuguese history, with potential implications for workers' rights across the country.