The SNCF strike highlights the ongoing tensions between public service restructuring and employee rights in France.
The airline pilots' union's response to increased taxation reflects broader concerns in the air transport industry regarding government policies affecting competitiveness.
If negotiations between SNCF management and unions fail, significant travel disruptions may occur during the holiday season.
The pilots' strike may lead to increased public scrutiny and potential government reconsideration of the proposed air transport tax.
SNCF Strike Notice Before Christmas: Transport Minister Calls for Dialogue
As the holiday season approaches, the French Transport Minister, François Durovray, has urged for a successful dialogue between SNCF management and unions to avert a potential strike that could disrupt travel plans for many passengers. Unions have announced an unlimited strike starting December 11, primarily demanding a moratorium on the restructuring of Fret SNCF, which will see a reduction of 10% of its workforce as it splits into two separate entities.
Durovray emphasized the importance of responsibility and communication, stating, "This dialogue must succeed because we cannot imagine that at the moment when France must move forward, it is blocked." He reassured the public that the government would not accept a situation where trains are unavailable during the Christmas period, although he did not provide specific guarantees.
The restructuring of Fret SNCF is a response to negotiations with the European Commission, which involved the potential repayment of 5 billion euros due to violations of competition rules. The minister indicated that assurances had been made to retain railway jobs and maintain current train services.
Airline Pilots' Union Calls for Strike Against Air Transport Taxation
In a separate development, the airline pilots' union has announced plans for a strike and rally on November 14 in response to the government's proposed increase in air transport taxation. The amendment, recently approved by the National Assembly, aims to impose an additional billion euros in taxes on the air sector, raising ticket prices significantly for economy and business class flights.
The proposed tax hikes range from 2.60 euros to 9.50 euros for economy class tickets on European flights and from 20 to 30 euros for business class tickets. Critics, including Budget rapporteur general Charles de Courson, argue that this tax burden could undermine the competitiveness of the Paris air travel hub compared to other international airports.
The pilots' union's call to action reflects growing concerns within the air transport sector about increased taxation and its potential impact on employment and operational viability, as they plan to mobilize near the National Assembly.
