Portugal prepares for general strike this Wednesday (3)

Portugal is preparing for a general strike this Wednesday (3), called by the CGTP (General Confederation of Portuguese Workers). The strike was called against possible changes to the country's labor law.

CGTP expects strong support from both the public and private sectors.

One of the most affected areas must be health. The National Federation of Doctors of Portugal issued an alert, highlighting that there may be interruptions in some services provided to patients.

The European country's Independent Doctors' Union chose not to join the strike, but even so, appointments and exams are expected to be postponed due to a lack of professionals.

In education, directors anticipate that there will be strong support for the strike, both from teachers and assistants. Some schools may not be open this Wednesday.

Unions warn that other areas, such as Justice, Finance, Social Security and municipal services, may also suffer interruptions.

The government, in turn, alleviated concerns and asked that those who should not participate in the strike be allowed to work.

"My conviction is that the vast majority - the overwhelming majority - of Portuguese people who work will go to work" this Wednesday, said Prime Minister Luis Montenegro.

"What often happens is that a minority manages to condition the work of others. I hope that doesn't happen; I hope that both things happen. Some have the right to exercise the right to strike and do so, and others have the right to work and also [I hope they can] do so", he added.

In addition to the public sector, private sector unions also joined the protest, including those in the hotel, telecommunications, industry, commerce and energy sectors.

Source: CNN