Spanish Train Operator Cancels Nearly 250 Trains Over Workers Strike

MOSCOW, December 26 (Sputnik) — Spanish state-owned rail company Renfe cancelled 249 trains as a result of a 23-hour workers strike, local media reported Friday.

The strike has also affected another rail company Adif, the Administrator of Railway Infrastructures, a state-owned company that plays a leading role in the country's rail network.

The General Confederation of Labour trade union organized the strike to demand the return of bonuses, an end to wage freezes and the hiring of new workers by both Renfe and Adif. The trade union also demanded the unification of rail transport into a single company.

Only 77 percent of long distance passenger trains will operate Friday. This means that out of 350 trains affected by the strike, 269 will provide minimal service and 81 will be canceled. Some 315 out of 483 middle distance passenger trains will operate, while 168 passenger trains will be canceled.

Some 51 out of 306 freight trains will remain in service, 17 percent of normal.

Between 62.5 percent and 75 percent of Spanish commuter trains will provide limited service.

Renfe offers those travelers affected by the strike a refund of the full amount of the ticket. It will also offer a new ticket for another date.

The strike is scheduled to end Friday at 11 p.m. local time (22:00 GMT).

Spain has been in a serious economic, social and political crisis for the past several years. The country has seen many strikes in almost every sector of its economy, largely supported by trade unions.