Italian transport unions demand action on staff shortages and worker safety

Labor unions in Italy are raising alarms regarding the deteriorating state of local public transport, focusing on staff shortages and worker safety. In Siena, Fit-Cisl has called for urgent meetings with Autolinee Toscane to address chronic understaffing. Union leaders emphasize that current issues cannot be managed through emergency measures alone; they are calling for better work organization, improved shift rotations, and a better balance between work and life to prevent drivers from leaving the sector.

Simultaneously, multiple unions—including Filt-Cgil, Uil Trasporti, and Faisa Cisal—are advocating for increased protections against violence. Following recent aggressions, such as an incident involving a Conerobus driver, unions are proposing national legislative changes. They aim to extend legal protections similar to those granted to healthcare workers, including proposing that personal injury against public transport staff be treated as an aggravating circumstance under the Penal Code.