Dockworkers threaten to strike over the installation of a festive marquee in a loading area

The assembly of dockworkers at the port of Cádiz, where Coordinadora holds the union majority, has announced that they will stop their activity during Carnavales, scheduled for late February and early March, if the Autoridad Portuaria does not take “immediate action” to resolve issues related to road traffic and safety conditions at the facilities.

This decision came after the installation of a festive marquee in the middle of the loading area, which they describe as “an unacceptable absurdity that has exhausted their patience.” In addition, the group has detailed the numerous deficiencies to the Autoridad Portuaria, which they consider “a serious breach of occupational safety regulations” that endangers the safety of workers, users, and tourists.

In a report signed by Juan Pablo Bermúdez, occupational risk prevention delegate, it is reported that the pavement is “in deplorable conditions, with cracks, sinkholes, and holes that complicate maneuvers and increase the risk of trailers and containers overturning.”

The lack of maintenance that has led to the deterioration of the mobile ramps is also highlighted, with sunken access points and manholes yielding under weight. Furthermore, the lack of signage is pointed out, as the absence of road markings and “poor planning” have created traffic chaos, aggravated by the addition of new roll-on/roll-off cargo ships.

In addition, it is reported that heavy vehicles, light cars, tour buses, and pedestrians share the same areas, increasing the risk of accidents and collisions. As they indicate, incidents such as overturns have already occurred due to the impossibility of complying with container transport regulations owing to “the deplorable state of the pavement.”

The situation was reported to the Autoridad Portuaria on January 12, as well as in April 2024, without any action being taken in this regard. Therefore, they demand the immediate repair of the pavement and mobile ramps; the installation of proper signage and physical separation for different types of traffic; the creation of a safe plan for receiving roll-on/roll-off cargo ships; regular safety inspections; and road safety training programs.

Finally, the workers urge port officials to step up to their responsibilities, warning that a work stoppage would have serious repercussions for port operations and the region's economy.