French transport minister asks unions to act responsibly amid school holidays

By Nur Asena Erturk

ANKARA (AA) – The French transport minister on Monday called on trade unions to not block those who are traveling during the school holidays.

Workers continue to plan strikes and demonstrations against the pension reform project -- which triggered outrage when the government announced preparations last year.

It includes an increase to the retirement age from 62 to 64 in 2030, and starting in 2027, the change will also require at least 43 years of work to be eligible for full pensions.

Transport Minister Clement Beaune told broadcaster LCI that striking is a workers' right.

However, he called the unions to exercise "respect and responsibility" during the holidays.

"A debate is on, some organizations call on not doing protests on Saturday so as to not block those who will travel during the school holidays," Beaune said. "Striking is a right, but this must be taken into account when choosing the dates."

Unions from all sectors – including energy and education – organized several walk outs and protests during January.

Some groups are planning strikes and protests for Tuesday, while others are in favor of strikes and demonstrations on Saturday.