The train workers trade union plans to stage a nationwide strike next Friday, demanding wage increases.

The leader of the La Fraternidad union, which groups train engine drivers, Omar Maturano, said the companies in the sector have "failed to attend negotiations" at the Labour Minister, as both parties had agreed in February.

"This behaviour is an offense to our disposition and the good will of the workers to continue with the salary talks," stated the unionist in a press release.

Maturano also reported that the companies are pressing the government to increase government subsidies as a way to cope with salary increases requested by the sector. "They (the private firms) are clever, and each time we request wage hikes they request that the government pay for the difference," he said.

"We have to be categorical and not hesitate, because if there are no subsidies, ticket prices will increase," he said, defending the subvention granted to train companies.