PARIS, Oct 19 (NNN-PRENSA LATINA) — Several sectors of the French economy and society went on a strike and demonstrations convened by unions in demand of salary increase and in rejection of requisitions against refinery workers also on strike.
The protests encompass the spheres of transportation, education, public service, and energy, with the continuation of the strike that has paralyzed refineries and deposits of the TotalEnergies oil company for weeks, plus others.
The unions demand a salary increase in a context of rampant inflation and recalled the super profits of large companies such as TotalEnergies, which recognized having earned more than 10 billion euros in profits in the first half of the year.
The protests are marked by more than three weeks of strike at the oil company’s refineries, causing long lines and fuel shortages, with three out of 10 supply stations affected at the national level and a particularly complex situation in the north of the country.
After an agreement between TotalEnergies and unions not involved in the strike, the Government enacted the requisition process, which forces workers to return to their jobs to avoid criminal sanctions, a measure that fueled unrest and triggered the call to mobilization.
According to authorities, the demonstration is already having an impact on public transport, with the reduction of regional train service, while in Paris several bus lines are operating with fewer vehicles, although the subway does not seem to be experiencing great difficulties.
In addition to the strike, marches are planned in the afternoon, especially in Paris. — NNN-PRENSA LATINA
