Tata Steel workers could strike

Steel concern 'Tata Steel' in IJmuiden is facing a potential prolonged strike period. The strike is supposed to start either Friday or Monday, according to Aad in 't Veld, chairman of union FNV Bondgenoten. 1,100 workers voted for a strike on Tuesday morning.

Later today 500 more workers will also cast a vote. The collective agreement discussions halted last month when parties could not reach an agreement on several points. FNV demanded a 3 percent wage increase and that the sobering of working conditions be canceled. Tata Steel wants to cut vacation days and overtime pay. The company reportedly also wants to renegotiate the employment pact, signed last year, that guarantees no redundancies until October 1st, 2016. "We will formally set an ultimatum, followed by a strike," said In 't Veld. Tata Steel is also putting in an effort to come to a good collective agreement, baring in mind the current economic situation, according a company spokesperson. Tata Steel, formerly Hoogovens, employs 9,000 workers. The current collective agreement expires late March.