Transport Drivers Strike Impacts On Bus Services

Approximately 10,000 drivers affiliated with Finland's Transport Workers' Union (AKT) began an indefinite strike at 1800 local time (1600 UTC) on 2 March 2010. The work stoppage -- which was called over a wage dispute -- halted two-thirds of Helsinki's long-distance bus routes, and suspended service on routes to and from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (EFHK/HEL). Although rail services were available, overcrowding forced many passengers to find alternate means of travel. The strike also limited bus services in Oulu, Espoo, Vantaa, Tampere and Turku, and suspended garbage collection and the delivery of goods in the region. The strike was called off and workers returned to work later on 3 March, following successful negotiations between the AKT and the Employers' Federation of Road Transport (ALT).