French Transport Union Folds - Strike Collapses

Nicolas Sarkozy appears to have won a major victory in his quest to improve the economy of France. The rail workers who went out on strike nine days ago have voted to end the strike.

The collapse of the strikes a day after the start of negotiations suggested defeat for labor unions — and could clear the way for the president's ambitious program to retool France.

In 42 of 45 morning meetings, rail workers voted to return to work Friday, a tendency that continued in the afternoon, union officials said.

The development was good news for travelers who have been forced to cancel trips and invent new ways to get to work. Parisians stung by a subway strike have walked or used bikes and scooters to cross town.

Prime Minister Francois Fillon called on rail workers to restart traffic "completely and without delay." He thanked the French for their patience and unions for their "responsible attitude."

It can take days to return the vast rail system to full speed. Both the SNCF train authority and the RATP which runs Paris public transport indicated there would be clear improvements Friday but nothing close to full service. Pockets of resistance remained in southern France where strikers held out.

Sarkozy's stock just rose appreciably in France. He appears to have taken the first step toward reforming some of the worst abuses of the out of control French welfare state.

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  By Snooper, Thursday, 22 November , 2007 @ 6:12 pm

  Thank God!! I hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving Day! We have MUCH to be thankful for.

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  By crosspatch, Friday, 23 November , 2007 @ 2:19 pm

  That is HUGE news!

Other Links to this Post

1. Blue Crab Boulevard » Sarkozy Ascendant — Friday, 23 November , 2007 @ 9:04 am