French Railway Workers to Go on Strike
Railway Workers in France Call for Strike
Sud Rail and CGT unions in France have called for a strike, demanding improved working conditions, salary increases, and early retirement for railway workers. The three-day strike is expected to have a high participation rate of 70 to 90 percent, according to union estimates.
Daniel Ferte, secretary of the labor union FO Cheminots, expressed concerns about the busy working hours and stated that the promise of having 2 employees per train was not implemented on all trips. He also mentioned the dissatisfaction with irregular working hours that change daily, as well as working on weekends and public holidays.
The French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal acknowledged the right to strike but emphasized the responsibility of working. He commented on the frequent strikes by railway employees during holiday seasons, stating that the strikes, which have become a habit, damage the company’s reputation.
The timing of the strike, coinciding with the winter holidays, has raised concerns about the disruption of services. Despite this, SNCF announced their aim to operate one in every two high-speed trains during the strike.
The railway workers’ strike in France highlights the ongoing struggle for better working conditions and fair compensation in the industry. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the strike will impact the transportation sector and the ongoing negotiations between the unions and the French government.
