METRO drivers in Madrid will be on strike tomorrow (Friday) and Monday, February 27 during the four main rush hour periods.
Underground train services are likely to be disrupted between 06.05 and 08.40; from 13.20 to 16.25, and again from 17.00 to 19.55 on both days.
The 1,900 metro drivers employed in the capital say they will continue to strike every Friday thereafter until their voices are heard.
They have been complaining for years, they say, that their jobs are not recorded with the Social Security office as 'Electronic Traction Vehicle Operators', which requires an approved training course and qualification, exams at regional government level and a role involving 'a very high level of responsibility'.
As they are not registered as such, they are listed as unqualified manual workers.
The result is that many metro drivers have been 'retired, relocated or redeployed' due to work-related illness caused by noise pollution and psychological issues, since their professional category is not recognised by the State.
