17 Apr 2018 | 08:11 AM UTC
France: National public sector strike April 19 /update 1
Labor union calls on public sector employees to strike April 19; protests and transportation disruptions anticipated
Event
The General Confederation of Labor (CGT) is planning to hold a national strike on Thursday, April 19, to denounce planned public sector reforms. Public transportation services in cities throughout France as well ferry services will be affected. Associated protests - notably in the Paris region - are likely.
As a reminder, unions representing employees at SNCF, the French national rail operator, have also planned to strike on April 19. Significant rail disruptions are to be anticipated (e.g. reduced services, delays, and overcrowding on available trains).
Context
This industrial action comes after a similar public sector strike on March 22 in protest of new reforms introduced by President Emmanuel Macron's government. The government plans to abolish 120,000 civil servant jobs over a five-year period as part of its "Public Action 2022" plan, along with reforms such as an increased use of contractors and a merit pay system.
Another public sector strike is planned for May 22. Additionally, Air France employees are set to hold strikes April 17, 18, 23, and 24. The SNCF is also holding a series of strikes on the following dates: April 18, 19, 23, 24, 28, and 29; May 3, 4, 8, 9, 13, 14, 18, 19, 23, 24, 28, and 29; and June 2, 3, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 22, 23, 27, and 28.
Advice
Individuals in France are advised to monitor the situation, confirm transportation reservations, and allow for extra time to reach their destinations.
