France: Fuel shortages worsening /update 2

Event

Major fuel shortages are possible throughout the country in the coming days due to a strike launched on Friday, May 26 by truck drivers tasked with transporting “dangerous” substances, including gasoline and diesel fuel, major fuel shortages are possible in the coming days throughout the country. Participation in the strike is particularly strong in the west (Donges, Nantes, La Rochelle) and in Île-de-France (the Paris region), where 60-80 percent of drivers were reportedly on strike as of Tuesday, May 30. Gas stations generally have a minimum of three days’ worth of fuel; however, the first signs of shortages started in Paris region service stations on Sunday, May 28. According to media reports, most of the stations affected by shortages are service stations with one and a half days of fuel. As of Wednesday, May 31, almost 400 service station were completely dry, along with 400 others partially dry.

On May 30, the drivers started to block access to oil depots in Rouen, the Grandpuits oil refinery (Seine-et-Marne department), and the La Rochelle oil depot (Charente-Maritime). At least eight of the nine oil depots in Île-de-France have been surrounded by partial blockades, considerably slowing down fuel deliveries.

Context

The General Confederation of Labor (CGT), a major trade union, called for the strike to demand better work conditions. There are currently no talks planned between management and union representatives despite a threat to intensify the movement.

Advice

Individuals present in France are advised to keep abreast of the situation and to ensure sufficient fuel reserves before all long journeys. This website (in French) allows users to see the shortages in real time by location.