French driving schools have expressed disappointment after being left out of recent government fuel assistance programs. The École de Conduite Française (ECF), a representative body for driving schools, says the new aid, which supports 5.5 million people including self-employed nurses and other heavy fuel users, does not extend to driving schools. Patrick Mirouse, ECF president, described the exclusion as a sign that the profession is "still forgotten" and said the situation feels "like walking on our heads."
Mirouse explained that driving schools are seeking 20 cents per liter in government support—not to restore profit margins, but to balance the financial strain caused by rising fuel prices. He noted that contracts signed this year prevent driving schools from passing on increased fuel costs directly to trainee drivers, putting additional pressure on their finances.
The ECF is currently exploring all options to address the crisis, including the possibility of protests. However, Mirouse expressed doubt about whether the sector has the financial resources to afford a day of demonstrations. The exclusion from the fuel aid has raised concerns about the long-term viability of driving schools, particularly as fuel costs continue to rise and the sector faces mounting economic challenges.
Driving schools play a vital role in training new drivers and ensuring road safety, yet they remain one of the most vulnerable sectors in the transportation industry. With no immediate relief in sight, the ECF is pushing for urgent government intervention to prevent further financial strain on the profession.
French Driving Schools Left Out of Fuel Aid Expansion
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