Do It The French Way

Do It The French Way

Tens of thousands have joined protests in France calling for higher pay. 70,000 people marched in Paris while more joined in other cities. The key union involved, the CGT, wants a 10% pay rise for all workers as inflation has risen to 6.2%.

The union voted to extend stoppages at several oil refineries and depots operated by the French energy giant TotalEnergies. They say they want a share of companies’ profits caused by a surge in energy prices.

The three-week strike continued to seriously disrupt fuel distribution across the country, particularly in northern and central France and the Paris region – in some areas 50% of petrol stations had run dry. Across the country, 28% of petrol stations were out of fuel.

The French workers have shown how to fight back against inflation. Tragically, Southern Ireland’s unions have agreed to settlements that amount to a wage cut.

In the North, however, workers are standing up for themselves as they go into battle for higher pay rises.

We need to spread the French spirit throughout Ireland.