Bulgarian Transport Minister discusses staff transfer to Ivconi Express

Bulgarian Transport and Communications Minister Georgi Peev met with labor unions and Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ) management to discuss the transfer of employees to the private operator Ivconi Express. The discussions focused on labor conditions, personnel security, and staff qualifications.

Under a 12-year agreement signed in February as part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, Ivconi Express is set to take over 25% of passenger rail transport in Bulgaria starting December 13. While initial plans involved transferring 813 BDZ employees, the number has been revised down to 580.

Labor unions have expressed concerns regarding the transfer process and potential staffing shortages. Minister Peev emphasized that filling vacancies with unqualified personnel is insufficient and that specific numbers and necessary qualifications must be guaranteed to meet state obligations. Five working groups have been established to review issues regarding mobile crews, support staff, social conditions, and ticketing operations.