Lisbon, Oct. 2, (Lusa) - Three trade union organisations affiliated to the Communist-backed CGTP union confederation have called for a strike and a demonstration on Friday by public sector workers, which could bring schools, universities, social security services, registry and notary services, the justice system and refuse collection to a standstill.

The National Federation of Trade Unions for Public and Social Service Workers (FNSTFPS), the National Union of Workers in Local and Regional Government, Public Enterprises, Concessionaires and Related Sectors (STAL) and the Lisbon City Council Workers' Union (STML) have jointly organised the industrial action.

The strike, which begins at 12 a.m. today and will last for 24 hours, affects around 350,000 workers in general roles within central, direct and indirect, local and regional public administration, namely operational assistants, technical assistants and senior technicians.

The trade unions are demanding an immediate revaluation of these professionals' career paths, which they claim are «the lowest paid in public administration», recognition of the specific nature of these professions, and the immediate start of pay negotiations without waiting until next year.

At around 11:00 a.m., a demonstration will take place between Praça da Figueira and the Ministry of Finance in Lisbon, where a rally will be held, attended by the general secretary of the CGTP-IN, Tiago Oliveira.

CT/ADB // ADB.

Lusa