Pilots Protest Pension Reforms, Causing Delays in Flemish Ports

Since Thursday evening, pilots and other maritime workers have been protesting against the government’s pension plans, which could result in delays and long waiting times for ships wanting to dock in Flemish ports. The marine pilots are specifically protesting against the pension reforms proposed by Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s government. According to Eddy Hendryckx of the socialist union ACOD, the reforms could lead to significant cuts in pensions for young seafarers and pilots, with some facing reductions of up to 45%.

Currently, the pilots have not gone on strike but are taking the maximum amount of rest allowed by law. This has already caused delays in ship departures from the port of Antwerp, although the situation has since been resolved. However, as of this morning, 22 ships were waiting in the North Sea to dock in Antwerp or Ghent. Efforts are being made to minimize waiting times and assist these ships promptly, according to Daphne Vanhoucke of Flanders’ Maritime and Coastal Services.

The Port of Antwerp is uncertain about the future development of the situation, as the pilots are still working but could potentially bring operations to a halt in the coming days. While other unions have not yet joined the protest, Hendryckx anticipates a complete standstill in the near future. The impact of the protest on maritime operations and potential resolutions remain uncertain at this time.

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