Travel Woes Expected as Public Sector Workers Stage Nationwide Strike
France headed for a day of travel disruptions and widespread protests on Thursday, December 5, as public sector workers across the country participate in a nationwide strike. The disruption, prompted by a cost-cutting plan proposed by the government, will see reduced flight schedules and widespread rallies aimed at pressuring the government.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) announced on Tuesday that airlines have been asked to reduce their flight schedules at several major airports. Paris-Charles de Gaulle will experience a 10% reduction in flights between 6 a.m. and midday, while Paris-Orly will see a 25% reduction from 6 p.m. onwards. Marseille airport faces a more significant impact with a 50% reduction from 6 p.m., and Toulouse airport will see a 20% reduction throughout the day.
The DGAC warns that despite these preventive measures, passengers should expect disruptions and delays and advises those with flexible itineraries to consider postponing their journeys.
Protest Wave Gathers Momentum
The strike comes against a backdrop of escalating tensions between the government and public service unions. At the heart of the dispute is the government’s plan to tackle what it calls “civil servant absenteeism,” a strategy aimed at generating 1.2 billion euros in savings.
This cost-cutting measure has drawn sharp criticism from unions who argue it unfairly targets dedicated public servants.
Several dozen rallies are planned across France, with Paris expected to be a focal point of the demonstrations.
Teachers Join Nationwide Action
The majority union, FSU-SNUIpp, announced that school teachers have responded overwhelmingly to the call for a strike. Nearly 65% of teachers in primary education are expected to participate, further emphasizing the breadth of opposition to the government’s proposals.
Marylise Léon, the general secretary of the CFDT, another participating union, stated, “Despite the threat of government censorship on Wednesday, ‘we will be in the mobilization of December 5.’” Her words reflect the determination of the unions to secure concessions from the government.
The standoff between the government and public sector unions has been brewing since late October, when the cost-cutting plan was first unveiled. Relations between the two sides have deteriorated steadily, ultimately leading to a breakdown in social dialogue.
The nationwide strike and demonstrations on December 5 represent a significant challenge for the government and underscore the anger felt by many public service employees over proposed austerity measures. It remains to be seen if the act will force the government back to the negotiating table.
What modes of transportation beyond air travel are likely to be impacted by the nationwide strike in France?
## Travel Chaos Looms as France Braces for Nationwide Strike
**Host:** Joining us today is travel expert, Alex Reed, to discuss the potential travel disruptions expected in France this Thursday due to a planned nationwide strike. Welcome to the show, Alex Reed.
**Alex Reed:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Can you give our viewers an overview of what’s happening in France and how it might affect their travel plans?
**Alex Reed:** Certainly. Public sector workers across France are planning a nationwide strike on December 5th in protest against a government cost-cutting plan. This strike is expected to cause significant disruptions to transportation, particularly air travel.
**Host:** What specific travel impacts are people likely to face?
**Alex Reed:** The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has already asked airlines to reduce their flight schedules at several major airports. Paris Charles de Gaulle will see a 10% reduction in flights between 6am and midday. Paris Orly will experience a 25% reduction from 6pm onwards. Marseille airport will be hit particularly hard with a 50% reduction from 6pm, while Toulouse airport will see a 20% reduction throughout the day. [ [1](https://www.france24.com/en/france/20230119-live-france-hit-by-strikes-protests-as-unions-fight-macron-s-pension-overhaul) ]
**Host:** That’s quite significant. What advice would you give to travelers heading to or through France on December 5th?
**Alex Reed:** The DGAC strongly advises passengers to expect disruptions and delays, and to check with their airlines for the latest flight information. Those with flexible travel plans should consider postponing their trip if possible.
**Host:** Are there any other modes of transportation likely to be affected?
**Alex Reed:** While the main focus is on air travel, it’s likely that other forms of public transportation, like trains and buses, will also be impacted by the strike. Travelers should check local transportation websites or apps for the latest updates and plan alternative routes if necessary.
**Host:** Thank you for those valuable insights, Alex Reed. We appreciate your time and expertise.
