Railway workers in the Netherlands are threatening to strike again on Tuesday if negotiations with national train operator NS fail to progress on Monday. This would be the fourth strike in quick succession, causing significant disruption.

Tuesday’s potential strike would primarily affect train services in the northwest and eastern regions of the Netherlands, including major transportation hubs like Amsterdam and Schiphol Airport.

The primary point of contention is the demand by railway workers for a 6% pay raise. NS has thus far refused to offer more than 2.55%.

In addition to the pay increase, unions are advocating for improved early retirement options for employees involved in physically demanding work.

NS has increased their initial offer to 3.25%, including a 2.27% wage increase starting March 1. However, VVMC union described the offer as “underwhelming” but stated they are willing to continue negotiations.

Union FNV has also expressed willingness to negotiate, while CNV said it would hold off on calling its members to strike until at least Wednesday.

NS chief Wouter Koolmees stated that the unions are being inflexible in their demands. He argues that the unions’ demands would place too great a financial strain on the NS.