SNCF Strike Threat Looms Over Christmas Travel Plans
The French railway system, SNCF, is facing a potential rolling strike set to commence on December 12, raising concerns about disruptions during the busy Christmas travel season. Railway workers have historically used strikes during the holiday period to advocate for better pay, career advancement, and improved working conditions. Past strikes, such as those in 2019 against pension reforms and in 2022 involving TGV controllers, have caused significant travel disruptions. However, current indications suggest that the upcoming strike may not garner substantial support, potentially allowing for smoother travel during the holidays.
Recent mobilizations, such as a protest against the dismantling of Fret SNCF, saw limited participation, with reports indicating that TGV services are running normally while regional services like TER and Intercités experienced only moderate disruptions. The SNCF management has proposed a salary increase of 2.2%, which is above the current inflation rate of 1.5%. Union responses to this proposal have been muted, indicating a possible shift towards a more conciliatory approach.
Future of SNCF Strikes and Management's Response
The coming days are critical as unions decide whether to escalate their protests in response to the government's actions regarding Fret SNCF. Transport Minister François Durovray has urged for salary negotiations to be moved to early in the year to prevent strikes during peak travel times. SNCF President Jean-Pierre Farandou has expressed a commitment to avoiding a Christmas strike, emphasizing the importance of maintaining service for travelers. He reassured that no railway worker would be left without options amid restructuring efforts, aiming to alleviate public concerns about potential disruptions during the festive season.
