Strike action expands across France

Monday, 18th October 2010

France’s truck drivers have announced the latest public demonstrations against planned pension reforms. French truckers said they would obstruct key roads starting Sunday night. French rail unions, meanwhile, said they would continue industrial action today.

The protests by truckers and railway staff come amidst ongoing industrial action by workers at oil refineries. There are threats of further public marches protesting pension reforms set to be voted on by the French Senate in what is seen as a crucial test for the Sarkozy presidency.

Throughout several months of protests, French president Sarkozy has said he will not give in to protests at plans to hike the age of retirement. The unions hold great power in France and also vow not to give up.

Petrol supplies have been running out as the truck drivers say they will continue blocking major roads. French railways have already been subject to a day of problems caused by strikes. The unions vow to continue that action. Some two-thirds of regular services could be cancelled. As much as 50 per cent of TGV services could also be disrupted.

A further round of street protests is planned for tomorrow. Panic buying has resulted in petrol supplies running out across the country. Industry spokespeople say there coule be major disruption to fuel supplies by Wednesday. A line supplying fuel to Paris Charles de Gaulles Airport was disrupted earlier. The government says this was restored and no further problems should be seen with the supply of fuel for aircraft at the airport.

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↑ October 2010 news index

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