Train dispatchers, TC dispatchers, and traffic dispatchers have announced a total suspension of rail services on the Belgrade-Bar, Podgorica-Nikšić, and Podgorica-Bajze routes if their demands are not met by Friday, August 22 at 8 AM, as stated by Andrej Kaluđerović, representing a group of workers from the Railway Infrastructure of Montenegro (ŽICG).

According to the announcement, 84 train, TK, and traffic dispatchers will take part in the stoppage, which will continue until their demands are fulfilled.

Kaluđerović expressed that the ŽICG management and the Ministry of Transport have been “ignoring” their requests for many years.

“Our existence, dignity, and professional integrity are at risk, and our patience has worn thin. Our salaries range from 680 to 800 euros, which includes night shifts and 35 years of experience. These figures represent the lowest wages in Montenegro despite our crucial role in developing and ensuring safety in railway operations,” the statement outlines, accompanied by pay slips.

“It’s essential to note that between 2009 and 2019, our salaries experienced two reductions totaling 30%, with union consent, which has acted as an extension of management. This injustice remains unrectified. During that period, we earned between 600–700 euros, while the minimum wage was 192 euros. Even today, despite the increased minimum wage, our earnings have barely changed. Furthermore, our beneficial length of service and official standing have been revoked. We are not compensated for overtime, which constitutes a direct and intentional breach of the Labor Law. In modifications to the collective agreement, our coefficients have barely improved from 6.12 to 7.34, and the bonus has gone from 14% to 15%, translating to only an 80–100 euro salary increase, while higher management sees increases from 200 to 450 euros,” the statement continues.

The statement further indicates that “this discrimination” has resulted in a shortage of dispatchers.

“Workers are resigning in large numbers. The Kos and Trebaljevo intersections have been closed due to a lack of personnel. Meanwhile, ŽICG management and the Ministry of Transport remain conspicuously silent. Moreover, the public has witnessed a letter from two representative unions defending management and attacking our media appearances without merit. This clearly demonstrates that these unions no longer represent worker interests but instead align with management. Their attempt to label 80 workers as a ‘minority’ is demeaning and disrespectful. We are referring to individuals who carry the critical responsibility for traffic safety, have families, and conduct their jobs honorably, fairly, and conscientiously.”

The announcement regarding the transportation halt is not a threat; it is a final measure to compel the authorities to “finally listen.”

“We stand ready to uphold our dignity and livelihoods to the very end, even at the risk of being dismissed. We highlight that, up until now, the management of ŽICG has failed to respond to any of our requests and demands,” concludes the statement signed by Kaluđerović.

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