France: Possible Disruption due to Strike Action (10 – 12 Oct 2011)

Possible Disruption to Travel in France due to Strike Action and Demonstrations (10 – 12 Oct 2011)
10 October 2011

Chamberstravel.com Transport workers affiliated to various unions are planning to hold work stoppages on 10-12 October 2011. This may include employees from national rail operator SNCF who will strike from 2000hrs on 10 October to 0800hrs on 12 October, workers from Paris” transport network RATP who plan to undertake strike action from 2230hrs on 10 October to 0630hrs on 12 October and employees from Air France may observe a 24-hour walkout on 11 October. Also, five labour unions, including CGT, CFDT and SUD, on 11 October plan to stage nationwide demonstrations against government austerity measures in several cities in France including Paris, Marseilles, Lyon and Bordeux. The presence of large crowds and attendant security measures, such as road closures, may cause significant traffic disruption in the vicinity of these events. If the work stoppages go ahead as planned, they are likely to disrupt public transport in Paris, as well as rail services nationwide. Passengers are recommended to check the status of their journeys and allow extra time to reach their destination. For further information, please visit the FCO website or contact your Chambers travel team for advice or assistance.