Union members have backed a pay deal for employees of Dutch rail operator NS, putting an end to months of industrial action.

The FNV and VVMC unions both announced on Monday that their members had voted in favour of the proposals, which the other main rail workers’ union, the CNV, endorsed in July.

The company agreed to backdate a 4% pay rise to March 1 this year, with a further 3.5% increase in 2026. People in higher paid positions will receive a smaller rise of 3% this year.

The deal also includes an early retirement clause for workers in physically demanding roles, who will be able to claim their pension after 30 years. Older workers can also opt out of night shifts from the age of 63, with a commitment to reducing the age to 61 by 2029.

The FNV said not all its demands had been met, such as a bonus for train toilet cleaners, but overall it was pleased with the outcome, which 89% of its members supported.

“We are pleased with this result and the broad support among our members,” said union official Henri Janssen. “It is now up to NS to implement these changes quickly.”