A major French union has issued a warning of potential strikes, including at hospitals, during the upcoming Paris Olympics. The union, CGT, has indicated that they will give a notice of strike in public services during the Games, scheduled for July-August, with the Paralympics following in August-September.
Paris is expecting a significant influx of visitors during the Games, with up to 15.9 million people predicted to visit the region from July to September. The general secretary of CGT emphasized the need for immediate government action to ensure the success of the Games, highlighting concerns about social preparations.
The union has expressed frustration over what they perceive as a lack of attention to their warnings, citing potential impacts on thousands of workers who may face longer hours and postponed holidays due to the Games. Questions have been raised about the social conditions of work, accommodation for workers, childcare arrangements, and bonuses.
While the head of the Paris Olympics organizing committee hopes that trade unions will not disrupt the event with strikes, disruptions are already expected in the transportation network due to a strike notice issued by CGT over pay issues at transport operator RATP.
In response to protests, the government has agreed to provide bonuses to police officers deployed during the Olympics. However, concerns remain about the state of hospitals in the Paris region, with calls for increased funding and a recruitment plan to address staffing shortages and exhaustion among healthcare workers.
French health workers have long advocated for more hiring and better salaries in public hospitals, particularly in light of the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The union's warnings underscore the need for comprehensive social preparations to ensure a successful and sustainable Paris Olympics.
Source: AP Olympics
