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.