President condemns 'hidden strike' actions

Catalan President Salvador Illa has strongly criticised unannounced work absences by Rodalies [commuter rail network] drivers on Monday 9th November 2026, calling the actions "not the way to resolve things." Speaking to media including Europa Press, Illa expressed understanding of staff grievances but rejected the method of disrupting services without formal strike notification. "I do not like the attitude of the drivers not going to work today; it is not the way to resolve things," Illa said in remarks reported by Europa Press. He described the week as "difficult" and stressed that improvements to the rail network must come through investment and dialogue, not informal stoppages.

Service disruptions amid planned industrial action

Monday's irregularities occurred outside any officially scheduled strike, though further industrial action is due this week. Drivers have planned strikes for Tuesday and Thursday, with minimum services set at 66% during peak hours and 33% off-peak. On Wednesday 11th November, coinciding with a general strike, Rodalies will operate at 25% capacity during peak times and none during off-peak periods, according to ARA. Illa did not label Monday's absences a "hidden strike" but acknowledged the impact on commuters. He linked future improvements to ongoing infrastructure works, new rolling stock, and the stabilisation of the transfer of Rodalies management to the Generalitat.

I understand the mood of the drivers, but the way to make your voice heard is not by making service difficult, but by negotiating with the Ministry of Transport.

2027 target for visible improvements

Illa reiterated confidence that users will see "tangible" improvements in the Rodalies network at the start of 2027, citing progress in works and fleet renewal. This timeline aligns with statements from the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, which confirmed in January 2026 the creation of Rodalies de Catalunya SME, SA, a joint operator with 49.9% Generalitat and 51.1% Renfe ownership, as a key step toward stable governance of the service. Despite the upcoming 29th November snap election, Illa insisted the transfer process remains on track. While national minister Óscar Puente acknowledged the election could "alter" the R1 line transfer schedule, both governments have reaffirmed their commitment to the handover.

Stance on general strike

Regarding Wednesday’s general strike, focused on housing rights and civil liberties, Illa confirmed he would not participate, stating: "I will not strike; I will be President." However, he expressed understanding of the mobilisation, clarifying that the Catalan government is not pressuring public employees to take part. He described the protest not as oppositional but as a pro-housing, pro-freedom demonstration that society should take seriously. The Catalan government, while sympathetic, will not officially join the demonstration, El Periódico reported.

What it means for you

  • When: Early 2027 is when users will see tangible transformations on the tracks.
  • Where: The changes will be visible on the Rodalies commuter rail network in Catalonia.

Sources: Crónica Global, Europa Press, RTVE.