New wave of strikes hit Iceland
Animals may not be slaughtered in abattoirs without a vet present. Photo: Árni
A new wave of strike action has hit Iceland today. Just under 100 individuals from member assocations of the the Iceland Association of Academics (BHM) downed tools at midnight.
Ongoing wage dispute
Various BHM member associations have been involved in strike action since 9 April, as a result of the continued failure of talks with State authorities to resolve an ongoing wage dispute.
The four unions beginning industrial action today are: the Academic Union of Ministerial Staff, the Icelandic Veterinary Association and two unions at the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority – the Icelandic Association of Natural Scientists and the Union of Food and Nutrition Scientists.
Three of the four associations have announced an indefinite strike, while the Academic Union of Ministerial Staff intends to end industrial action on 8 May.
Impact on food and finances
The strike by the Icelandic Veterinary Association will result in a halt in the slaughter of mammals and poultry, as a vet must always be present. There will also be an almost complete halt in imports of animal products, such as meat and cheese, and consumers can expect a reduced selection of fresh meat products in shops. However, industrial action involves only vets employed by the State, so pet-owners will still be able to get their animals treated at pet hospitals.
The strike of the Academic Union of Ministerial Staff may delay payment of child benefits and mortgage interest at the end of this month.
