Archive image — © Stijn Van de Sande
The joint trade union front of ACOD, ACV and VSOA is also organizing new actions in Belgian prisons next week. This was reported by trade unionist Eddy De Smedt (VSOA) on Wednesday. The unions are protesting, among other things, against overcrowding and staff shortages.
A strike picket was set up on Wednesday at the Ypres prison, where about 20 to 25 staff members were present. According to the ACOD trade union, the minimum service is guaranteed, which means that visits can continue. Another action is planned for Thursday in Dendermonde, Friday in Leuven.
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A Higher Consultation Committee will take place on Wednesday afternoon. The closure of Hoogstraten, overcrowding and the evaluation of minimum services are on the agenda. However, the unions do not expect concrete solutions, especially since Justice Minister Paul Van Tigchelt (Open VLD) is not present at that meeting.
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That is why the common trade union front has decided to continue the actions next week. Action will take place at Oudenaarde prison on Monday, and Hoogstraten on Tuesday. There will be no strike picket on May 1, but actions will take place again on Thursday and Friday, first in Tongeren and then in Haren.
