The Independent Workers’ Union of the Canary Islands (SITCA) has announced protests at several airports across the archipelago during the first two weeks of July. This action is a precursor to a planned strike at CMD Aeropuertos Canarios S.L., which supplies fuel to a significant number of airlines operating in the region. The protests aim to highlight stalled collective bargaining and unacceptable working conditions faced by employees.
The affected airports include Tenerife South, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura. SITCA plans to raise public awareness about the daily challenges faced by workers from the company.
The union claims CMD Aeropuertos Canarios has shown a “lack of willingness to negotiate” during contract discussions. Despite significantly lowering their initial demands, SITCA states the company is still obstructing progress towards an agreement.
SITCA describes the current situation as “unacceptable,” emphasising that the strategic fuel-supply activity in the Canaries should not continue under burdensome conditions, including excessive workloads, understaffing, and unsafe working environments.
The protests are set to precede a strike starting on 15 July at midnight, aimed at drawing attention to the increasing discontent among staff and pressing for immediate changes.
While specific protest dates at each airport have not been disclosed for logistical reasons, SITCA highlights there is still time to avert a strike and remains committed to serious negotiations that reflect the workers’ realities.