The management of ŽICG, along with both representative trade unions and the Ministry, agreed to significantly increase salaries for all employees. However, the proposal was rejected after demands were made for an additional 25% increase in bonuses, which, according to management, is illegal and could not be accepted by any management or trade union anywhere.
Management explained that they had agreed to a coefficient of 7.9 and a 30% bonus. This would mean that a train dispatcher with a high school diploma and one year of experience would earn between €1,000 and €1,160 per month, depending on the month. A dispatcher with 15 years of service would earn between €1,045 and €1,208 per month — an increase of at least €300 for someone just starting the job.
According to ŽICG, employee representatives added a new demand for monthly assistance payments of €300 (or €200) until the adoption of the new collective agreement. Management said their proposal was in line with the law and offered a solid basis for further improving employee conditions. They alleged that the rejection of the offer raises suspicions that some of the strikers are influenced by organized groups aiming to sabotage the state. They urged employees willing to accept the offer to sign the agreement and return to work, warning them not to become unwitting participants in a planned disruption against Montenegro.
ŽICG also announced that it has started the process of hiring qualified personnel from Montenegro and neighboring countries as logistical support to restore rail services as soon as possible. They called on the police and the prosecutor’s office to take action to end the illegal blockade, which has been ongoing for four days, stressing that railway traffic is part of Montenegro’s critical infrastructure.
