French electricity network workers begin strike for higher wages

By Nur Asena Ertürk

ANKARA (AA) - Unions representing workers from the French electricity network, RTE, went on strike on Tuesday.

RTE management and the General Confederation of Labour (CGT) have not reached an agreement on salaries since the two sides met in November. The CGT is asking for a 6.9% raise but RTE management is offering 2.3%.

The CGT called a strike ahead of another round of negotiations scheduled on Wednesday.

Another strike focused on higher wages and better working conditions has hit the national railway operator, SNCF.

Travel was disrupted last weekend when controllers began a strike Friday. Normal transportation resumed on Monday.

Unions representing SNCF workers said another strike will commence on Wednesday.

High-speed TGV and Intercity lines will be affected.

The strikes before Christmas and the New Year have left travelers concerned as controllers have issued the strike notice for the busy holiday weekends.

Passengers who have booked tickets are advised to confirm that trains are still running before heading to the stations.