Security guards at Barcelona Metro will go on strike during La Mercè

Barcelona Metro’s security services’ five hundred workers are called for an indefinite strike starting at 24 hours on Wednesday, September 24, the first day of La Mercè 2025, the patron saint festival of the Catalan capital.

The strike was approved with a 78% vote by the workers’ assembly, and it is due to dissatisfaction with their working conditions, particularly regarding shifts and overtime. The strike announcement was met with concern by Metro officials, as the strike will have a significant impact on the functioning of the Metro during this busy period.

Union representatives stated, “We have been trying to negotiate improvements for months, but the company has not been willing to address our concerns. The strike is our last resort to make our demands heard and improve our working conditions.” The union is demanding more hiring to alleviate the workload and better distribution of shifts.

The strike is expected to affect the security services within the Metro stations, potentially leading to disruptions and longer waiting times for passengers. Metro authorities are working on contingency plans to minimize the impact on commuters during the strike period.

Barcelona’s Mayor expressed concerns about the strike, saying, “We hope that the parties can find a solution quickly to avoid inconveniencing citizens during such an important festival for our city.” The strike action during La Mercè is a significant development that will require careful management to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the Metro system.

As negotiations continue between the union and Metro management, commuters are advised to stay informed about possible disruptions and plan their journeys accordingly. The strike is set to begin at midnight on Wednesday and could potentially extend beyond the duration of La Mercè if an agreement is not reached between the parties.

The strike represents a challenge for both workers and Metro officials, as they navigate the complex issues at stake. The outcome of the strike will have implications for the future working conditions within the Metro’s security services and the relationship between workers and management.