The National Federation of Ports and docks CGT this Tuesday called two days of strike on 9 and 10 December to denounce the government’s attitude towards the application of the pension reform. “The federation is fighting against the Macron government’s pension reform,” the union explained in a press release.
The CGT Ports and Quays claims to have received assurances “several times from the president himself and his followers (ancient) Minister of Transport, Clément Beaune” that the reform does not apply “to dock workers and port workers”.
Port workers can validate their retirement four years before the legal age, i.e. at 60, compared to 58 before the 2023 reform. They want to negotiate this increase in the retirement age and extend early retirement measures for port workers who have been exposed to asbestos throughout their careers.
Strike in January
“We want concrete answers to our legitimate requests on asbestos and robustness”, also writes the federation, which in june launched a strike movement for the same reasons. It also calls for “10 billion euros” of investments “for the development of ports, whether state or decentralized”.
In addition to the two days of strike on 9 and 10 December, the CGT is calling for several hours of strike over ten days in January. It is also planned to eliminate overtime and “exceptional shifts” from 1 January.
How could the upcoming strikes in the ports and docks sector impact the global supply chain?
Interview: Understanding the Upcoming Strike in the Ports and Docks Sector
Editor of Time.news (E): Welcome, and thank you for joining us to discuss the upcoming strikes announced by the National Federation of Ports and Docks CGT.Can you explain the motivations behind the two-day strike set for December 9 and 10?
Expert (X): Thank you for having me. The CGT’s strike is primarily a response to the government’s stance on the recent pension reform. Thay feel betrayed since they had received assurances from President Macron and former Minister of Transport Clément Beaune that this reform would not apply to dock and port workers. The union aims to protest against what they see as a meaningful change in the terms of their retirement.
E: Can you elaborate on how the pension reform impacts dock and port workers specifically?
X: Certainly. before the 2023 reform, these workers could retire at age 58, which is notably younger than the legal retirement age of 62. The new reform raises their retirement age to 60, which the union argues is unacceptable, especially given the unique challenges faced by port workers, including exposure to asbestos. They are seeking negotiations to restore their former early retirement age and extend protections for those affected by hazardous working conditions.
E: The CGT has mentioned their desire for “concrete answers” regarding asbestos and investment in ports.What does this entail?
X: The federation’s concerns are rooted in health and safety. port workers have been substantially exposed to asbestos over the years, leading to serious health risks. they are requesting commitments from the government to address these concerns and implement measures that support affected workers. Moreover, the CGT is calling for a staggering investment of 10 billion euros for the progress of ports, aiming to modernize infrastructure and ensure worker safety and efficiency.
E: It seems this is not just a one-off event.Can you outline the additional actions planned for January?
X: Yes, along with the two-day strike in December, the CGT plans to instigate several hours of strikes over ten days in January. They are also looking to eliminate overtime and exceptional shifts starting January 1. this shows their determination to continue the fight until their demands are met and emphasizes that they want ongoing negotiations rather than just temporary ceasefires.
E: From an industry perspective, what implications could these strikes have on port operations and the broader economy?
X: Strikes in a sector as crucial as ports can lead to significant slowdowns in trade and logistics, impacting supply chains. Given that ports are critical gateways for international trade, prolonged disruptions can resonate throughout the economy, affecting everything from import prices to export capabilities. The response from the government and the eventual negotiations will be pivotal in determining the strike duration and its economic repercussions.
E: Thank you for your insights. What practical advice would you offer to readers, whether they are workers in the industry or consumers affected by these developments?
X: For workers in the industry, staying informed and involved in union activities is essential.Understanding your rights under current regulations is crucial, especially with recent reforms. For consumers and businesses relying on port operations, it’s wise to prepare for potential disruptions in goods delivery and to consider diversifying supply chain routes if applicable. Awareness of the ongoing situation will help everyone brace for any possible impacts ahead.
E: Thank you for this valuable discussion. We appreciate your insights into the challenges facing port workers and the implications for the industry and economy.
X: Thank you for the possibility to discuss this crucial issue.It’s vital to keep these conversations going as the situation develops.