France: Paris public transport union joins nationwide strike September 17 /update 1

Event

The Autonomous Operator of Parisian Transportation (RATP) has joined the General Confederation of Labour (CGT) and other trade unions in strike action planned across France on Thursday, September 17, in opposition to the government's economic recovery plan. RATP's industrial action commenced at 22:00 (local time) on Wednesday, September 16, and will continue until 08:00 on Friday, September 18, affecting train, metro, tram, and bus services across Ile-de-France. RAPT also called on members to join a demonstration at Place de La République in Paris from 14:00. The CGT-Cheminot union has also been on strike since 22:00 on Wednesday, and this will last until 07:55 on Friday, affecting services operated by the French National Railway Company (SNCF). A number of public sector workers are scheduled to join Thursdays' action, including workers from the civil service, the education sector, and public healthcare workers. Protests are expected to take place in urban centers across France on Thursday.

Disruptions to transport services are possible across France on September 17. Additional disruptions to travel and business are also possible as a result of protests. Due to current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions on public gatherings, the police may attempt to disperse protests that contravene these rules.

Advice

Individuals in France are advised to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, monitor developments, anticipate transportation and business disruptions near protest sites, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Those planning on utilizing alternative overland transportation methods during the strike period should also be aware of a surge in demand for these services.