Spain's housing crisis: 11 November strike planned

11 November in Spain: two major unions plan a 24-hour general strike over wages and the cost of housing. The General Union of Workers (UGT) and Workers' Commissions (CCOO) have agreed the date, UGT leader Pepe Álvarez said on Spanish television on Wednesday. They still need to finalise an agreement with the Tenants' Union and other groups that want to join.

The Confederation of Tenants' Unions also planned to put forward 11 November at a meeting on Wednesday afternoon.

Why the unions are calling a strike

The unions announced the strike plan on Monday, after Spain's Congress of Deputies rejected two housing decrees on Friday. Ministers approved amended versions on Tuesday.

Álvarez says housing costs are swallowing up pay rises agreed in wage deals. He says some businesses in areas where housing is hardest to afford cannot find workers because wages do not stretch to a home there.

Employers challenge the plan

The Spanish Confederation of Business Organisations (CEOE) says the strike has a political motive. Its president, Antonio Garamendi, argues that it may be illegal. Álvarez rejects that claim, saying the action is constitutional. The Independent Trade Union and Civil Servants' Central (CSIF) has said it will not take part.

The amended housing decrees still face a decision. With parliament dissolved ahead of the 29 November general election, its Permanent Deputation must decide whether to ratify them.

Topics: Housing

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com