Rio Police Strike Could Affect Carnival: Daily

By Ben Tavener, Senior Contributing Reporter

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Leaders of Rio de Janeiro Polícia Militar (Military Police – PM) strike movement are expected to meet next Wednesday, January 18th, to coordinate strike strategies and discuss their demands. Brazilian media is already saying a strike could spill over into Carnival – an event which clearly requires policing and security to be at its strongest.

The feeling of discontent among the ranks is said to be palpable and being expressed openly on social networking sites – with most in favor of strike action.

At the heart of strike plans is an attempt to improve working conditions: Rio’s PM forces are said to be the worst-paid in Brazil.

In what appears to be a pre-emptive move, the government has already reportedly brought forward promotions and a twenty percent adjustment in wages.

Those behind the movement say any strike actions would take place shortly before Rio Carnival – but is clearly a point of leverage for them, as officials would be concerned the police would not be back in place in time.

In 2011 the event attracted some 4.9 million people, including 400,000 foreigner tourists.

Read more (in Portuguese).

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