The Catalan healthcare system faced disruption on Friday as doctors staged a strike, although participation was lower than anticipated. Meanwhile, commuters are bracing for potential rail chaos as a train drivers’ union has announced industrial action on the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) network.

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Doctors’ Strike Sees Limited Support

The Conselleria de Salut (Department of Health) of the Generalitat de Catalunya reported a 4.3% participation rate for the Metges de Catalunya (MC) strike on Friday afternoon. This figure is significantly lower than the morning’s reported numbers. The Department of Health stated that 9.1% of doctors participated in the morning, while the MC union claimed a much higher rate of 43%.

The Metges de Catalunya union, representing medical professionals, is demanding improved working conditions within the Catalan healthcare system. Key demands include a specific medical agreement tailored to doctors’ needs and the abolition of arduous 24-hour shifts. The union is also pushing for reduced workloads and better overall support for medical staff.

Train Drivers Announce Strike Action

Further disruption looms as the Sindicato Español de Maquinistas y Ayudantes Ferroviarios (Semaf), the Spanish Union of Train Drivers and Railway Assistants, called for strike action on the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) network. The strike is planned for February 24th and 25th, as well as March 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, 2026, potentially impacting thousands of commuters who rely on the FGC for travel across Catalonia.

In response to the strike announcement, FGC stated it would operate train services in accordance with regulations set by the Department of Business and Labour of the Generalitat. The company will provide updated information through its usual communication channels, including its X (formerly Twitter) profile, website, and mobile application. Passengers should check these channels for any potential alterations to train schedules during the strike days.

FGC Expresses Surprise at Strike Call

FGC expressed its “surprise” at the strike call, particularly given that Semaf holds a minority representation of only 13% within the company’s committee. The company also noted that Semaf had not previously raised these specific proposals with management through established channels, such as the Circulation Safety Committee.

The strike’s exact reasons remain unstated, but they likely relate to ongoing negotiations over working conditions, pay, or safety concerns within the FGC network. The strike action comes after a tumultuous year for rail travel in Catalonia, with previous disruptions caused by various factors, including infrastructure issues and staffing disputes.

Outlook

Semaf and FGC are expected to continue negotiations in the coming days, attempting to avert the planned strike. Commuters should monitor official channels for updates and plan alternative travel arrangements if the strike proceeds as scheduled. The Generalitat de Catalunya will likely play a role in mediating the dispute to minimise disruption to public transport.

The low participation rate in the doctors’ strike suggests a potential lack of widespread support for the action, or perhaps a reluctance to disrupt services despite grievances. However, underlying issues within the healthcare system remain, and further negotiations must address the concerns of medical professionals across Catalonia.

According to Europa Press, FGC stated it would adhere to minimum service regulations mandated by the Department of Business and Labour of the Generalitat.

As reported by Europa Press, doctors’ demands included a new medical agreement.

For the official announcement regarding the FGC strike dates, refer to FGC’s official statement.