06 Dec 2022 | 08:50 AM UTC
France: Unionized rail workers plan strike action, Dec.7
Unionized rail workers plan strike action across France, Dec. 7. Rail disruptions likely.
Event
Unionized workers employed by French National Railways (SNCF) plan to strike nationwide Dec. 7. Three large unions have called for the strike during annual pay negotiations, and there is a further strike by unionized signal-staff in central France. The industrial action will affect the TGV high-speed network, inter-city trains, regional trains, and the mass-transit network around Paris. SNCF has announced that disruptions are likely to start around 20:00 Dec. 6 and continue into the peak-transit hours of Dec. 8. Specific regional disruptions are listed below:
TGV: Paris-Lyon and to the south of Bordeaux
INTERCITIES: Paris-Clermont and Lyon-Nantes
TER Regional network: Auvergne Rhone Alpes, Bourgogne Franche Comte, Grand Est, Occitanie, and Provence Alpes Cote d'Azur regions
Ile-de-France Transilien network: Lines C,D, and N
TGV INOUI network: SNCF advises consulting local information.
The strike will likely result in increased traffic congestion and demand for alternative public transportation. Services that do operate are likely to be more congested than usual. Although labor leaders have announced no specific plans for strike-related rallies, demonstrations are possible outside train depots and government buildings. Additional police will likely deploy to monitor all protests; related security measures may lead to localized transport disruptions. Any protests that may materialize will likely remain largely peaceful.
Context
This strike comes three days after the SNCF network was severely disrupted, Dec. 2-4, by separate union industrial action.
Advice
Reconfirm the status of rail transport in France during the strike. Consider using alternative transport for time-sensitive travel. Allow extra time to reach destinations due to increased traffic congestion and demand for alternative transport.
