An interprofessional strike call has been issued by the CGT for Thursday, June 5. Notably, the SNCF has announced “slight disruptions” in transportation on June 4 and 5.
The CGT has initiated an interprofessional strike for June 5, urging all railway workers to “act massively through a strike,” as negotiations with the management of SNCF Voyageurs did not yield results. In a press release , the union reiterated its proposals regarding the restructuring and enhancement of work bonuses as well as the working conditions of the personnel. Their primary demands include an increase in salaries along with a unique salary grid and hourly accounting for railway workers.
This date was strategically chosen: on the eve of the strike, SNCF management plans to conduct working groups addressing the demands. The CGT has also called for a strike among train drivers on June 4. Additionally, a second date for mobilization has already been set for June 11. However, Sud Rail and the ASCT collective have not aligned themselves with this movement, opting instead for “less predictable” actions due to the lack of expected results from the prior strike on May 8, which was adequately anticipated by the SNCF.
As of Monday, June 2, the SNCF provided initial forecasts for rail traffic during these two days. They anticipate “normal traffic on TGVs and Intercités, as well as on most regional TER and Transilien trains,” according to Le Figaro. However, they indicate that “slight disruptions are possible in certain regions or on specific lines.” In Ile-de-France , the RER B is expected to experience significant disruptions on Wednesday, June 4, while the RER C will face minor issues. The Transiliens may also be somewhat affected on Thursday. Updates on traffic will be provided after 5 PM the day before.
An Interprofessional Strike
The strike on June 5 is part of a broader interprofessional movement demanding better “retirement conditions, employment, and salaries.” On this date, MPs are set to articulate their positions regarding the potential repeal of the retirement age extension to 64 years. The CGT advocates for a retirement age of 60, including the right to early retirement for individuals with lengthy careers and those performing arduous tasks. Additionally, they are pushing for a reduction in working hours throughout life to 32 hours, the creation of jobs, and the formal hiring of contract workers, as outlined in a detailed press release .
Moreover, the union is rallying for support from public sector personnel . Anticipated strikes could disrupt various services such as school meals and after-school care. Around 150 mobilizations are expected across France on Thursday, detailed on this interactive map .
The strike actions reflect growing frustration among workers grappling with economic pressures. The demands revolve around improving labor conditions and guaranteeing fair compensation. Skyrocketing inflation and stagnant wages have exacerbated the situation, prompting the CGT to unite workers across sectors. The response from the government will be closely monitored in light of the scheduled meetings and working groups, which might pave the way for productive dialogue or signify further tensions.
Overall, this interprofessional mobilization underscores the Italian workers’ collective stance on significant issues affecting their livelihoods and future. The impacts of these strikes will be felt not only within the transportation sector but also resonating through public services, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various labor sectors. Anticipation builds around the outcomes of this action, as workers push for resolutions that reflect their needs and rights.