Strike continues at Martigues Hospital Center

The entire surgical block staff at the Martigues Hospital Center in the Bouches-du-Rhône is on strike, including operating room nurses, anesthesiologist nurses, nursing assistants, and hospital service agents. According to Manon Breteau, a member of the Inter-Blocks Collective, only essential staff remain to keep operating rooms functional.

Strike began in July 2026

The strike movement started in July 2026 in response to changes introduced by hospital management that staff claim worsen their working conditions and rights. Despite negotiations, no resolution has been reached so far.

Overtime pay changes affect part-time workers

One key issue is the removal of overtime pay for part-time workers. Nurses who previously received a premium for working nights, Sundays, and holidays will now be paid without this bonus, leading to a significant drop in income. Part-time workers, often single mothers, are particularly affected by this change.

Other measures include reduced breaks and shift changes

Another measure involves removing double pay without offering financial compensation, which staff view as unfair. Additionally, nursing assistants will lose 20 minutes of their midday break, potentially reducing their annual reduced working time by nine days. Anesthesiologists are also affected by the elimination of 24-hour shifts, requiring them to work 12-hour shifts instead.

Hospital director acknowledges concerns

Loïc Mondoloni, director of the Martigues Hospital Center, acknowledges the staff's concerns and explains the strike is part of a broader effort to follow regulations identified in recent audits. These audits highlighted the need to adjust practices like shift lengths, part-time pay, break times, and how on-call duties are valued.

Hospital proposes three levels of response

Mondoloni says discussions are ongoing, emphasizing the need for structured consultation and understanding the realities of the field. The hospital is proposing three responses: reviewing work schedules and organization, offering individual support to affected staff, and considering the unique needs of each profession and sector.