Judge bans pharmacies from striking around Christmas

The judge prohibits a strike by pharmacy employees during the Christmas period. This is the outcome of summary proceedings initiated by the trade associations at the Central Netherlands District Court.

The pharmacies wanted to strike for better wages on December 23, 24 and 27. Due to the Christmas holidays, most pharmacies would be closed for more than a week.

The trade associations were concerned that patients are receiving their medications much later than prescribed, resulting in serious health risks or pain complaints. That is why the organizations went to court to have the strike banned.

Because the strike would start immediately after the weekend, the judge had to make a decision quickly. That is why the verdict was announced first. Both parties will later receive the reasons for the decisions.