Authorities Fear Strike’s Effect on Public Health

In light of the situation caused by COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, the national police commissioner, the chief epidemiologist and the director of health in Iceland issued a joint statement yesterday, urging those engaged in wage negotiations to do all in their power to find ways to end ongoing strikes and prevent ones that are planned to begin on Monday.

“Strikes are likely to weaken ongoing efforts in public disease prevention, aimed against COVID-19, with unforeseen effects on public health in the country,” the statement reads. “In addition, the strikes would no doubt have a major impact on health care,” it concludes.

The impact of a potential strike, among members of BSRB – the Federation of State and Municipal Workers will be widespread in Icelandic society. The strike is scheduled to begin Monday, unless a deal is reached by then. According to mbl.is, the strike could have a substantial impact on Landspítali National University Hospital, where many members of BSRB work.

“[The strike] will disrupt clinical services and support services throughout the hospital,” states Ásta Bjarnadóttir, director of human resources at Landspítali. 

Nursing assistants are members of BSRB. In an effort to ensure patient safety, though, some exemptions from the strike will be granted.

During the month of March, BSRB members will be on strike the following days:

March 9-10, 17-18, 24, 26 and 31, as well as April 1. If no deal is reached by then, a general strike is planned to begin April 15.

Vínbúðin liquor stores will be closed on the days listed above, as will swimming pools and sports centers.

Some workers, such as those who work at recreational centers in the capital area and Akranes will go on strike indefinitely, starting Monday, March 9. Grade schools in Reykjavík and Seltjarnarnes are likely to close later in the month, since cleaning services will be affected as of Monday.

Finally, the processing of passports and driver’s licenses will be put on hold as well, as of Monday.