First Strike at ProRail Today to Affect Mainly Freight Traffic

Industrial action starts at 08:00 and could last until 14:00

Buses and trains to run as usual

The first 24-hour strike at rail operator ProRail began today, Tuesday 28 March. The strike is expected to mainly affect freight traffic, with passenger services not expected to be affected.

The strike began at 08:00 and is due to end at 14:00. If an agreement is not reached by then, further strikes are expected.

The strike is being held by the FNV union, which is demanding a 3.5% pay increase for its members.

ProRail has said that the strike is likely to have a significant impact on freight traffic, with trains likely to be delayed or canceled.

The situation is being monitored by the Dutch government, which has said it is concerned about the impact of the strike on the economy.

The strike is the first to be held by ProRail in several years.

In a statement, FNV said that it was "deeply disappointed" that ProRail had not met its demands.

"We have been negotiating with ProRail for months, and we have not been able to reach an agreement," the statement said.

"As a result, we have been forced to take industrial action to try to get the pay rise that our members deserve."

ProRail has said that it is committed to finding a solution to the dispute.

"We understand that our employees are frustrated, but we believe that we have made a fair offer," the company said in a statement.

"We are hopeful that we can reach an agreement with FNV soon."