Firefighters protest with symbolic strikes

Firefighters in the Aude department of southern France have begun each of their shifts with a one-minute strike since October 21. This action is part of a broader protest organized by the Force ouvrière SIS 11 union, which plans to continue the movement until December 4.

Protest does not halt emergency services

Despite the strikes, rescue operations in the Aude department continue without disruption. The Departmental Fire and Rescue Service of the Aude (SDIS 11) has confirmed that emergency services remain fully operational, and the union has emphasized that their commitment to public safety remains strong.

All staff involved in the protest

The strike notice applies to all personnel within the SDIS 11, including both firefighters and administrative and technical staff. The one-minute strikes are meant to express dissatisfaction with current conditions while ensuring that the public rescue service continues to function.

Protest is part of a national movement

The local protest in Aude is linked to a larger national movement, which has been renewed by inter-union negotiations with the French Minister of the Interior. The demands of the movement include better funding, improved staffing levels, and better working conditions for fire and rescue services.

Union outlines specific requests

In a letter to the president of the SDIS 11 board of directors, the Force ouvrière union listed six key demands. These include permanent funding for the service, a refocus on rescue and emergency care, the hiring of professional firefighters on a statutory basis, and measures to improve health and safety for staff.

Union seeks recognition for administrative staff

Among the union’s demands is the recognition of the roles of PATS, which refers to administrative and technical staff. The union also calls for a new career path for professional firefighters and the full acknowledgment of the contributions of all personnel within the fire and rescue service.