No traffic fines for month due to police action

Police unions are stepping up their protest against the federal government. From Wednesday night this week until January 15th, there will be no parking or traffic fines, Het Laatste Nieuws writes on Monday.

The "fine-free month" is an initiative of the four police unions VSOA, NSPV, ACV and ACOD. First- and second-degree traffic and parking violations are turned a blind eye. Only a verbal warning and explanation of the action will follow. Infractions that "directly endanger safety" will still be fined. There is still uncertainty about speed checks.

"If politicians do not listen, we will continue after January 15th. Until 2024 if necessary"

Citizens will feel the impact elsewhere, too: in the week before Christmas, there will be more thorough traffic checks, including breathalyzer tests. These checks will also happen during rush hours.

The anger among police officers has two reasons: their "soft" end-of-career scheme (including early retirement at 58) is being gradually phased out, and a previously agreed pay rise has been revoked. "If politicians do not listen, we will continue after January 15th. Until 2024 if necessary," the unions say.

(BRV)

^{© BELGA PHOTO INE GILLIS}