SNCF unions meet with management

Trade unions representing SNCF employees are meeting with the company's management on Tuesday to discuss potential strike action planned for November 5. The meeting aims to address concerns over wages and working conditions, with the unions seeking to exert pressure on the company.

Public support expected at meeting

Approximately 2,000 people are expected to gather outside SNCF's headquarters in Saint-Denis to show support for the union representatives during the meeting. The event highlights the significance of the negotiations and the potential impact of a strike.

Strike notice period and potential disruptions

A strike notice period set by four SNCF unions runs from November 4 at 7 p.m. to November 6 at 8 a.m. This period includes the day of the inaugural trip of the TGV M, and disruptions could be significant, similar to those seen in a major strike last June.

Inflation and wage demands

The unions are demanding salary increases to compensate for the rising cost of living, with inflation forecast at 2.3% for the year, including a 3.4% increase in October. The previous wage agreement included a clause for review in case of significant inflation changes.

SNCF's financial position

The unions argue that SNCF has the financial means to meet their demands, citing the company's 1.2 billion euros in profits during the first half of the year. However, the company notes that these profits are being used to fund network maintenance through a contribution fund.

Unions call for fair compensation

Unsa Ferroviaire argues that SNCF should consider the impact of inflation on employee purchasing power, while Sud Rail criticizes the company's approach as "contempt." The unions also seek improvements in working conditions, social unity, and increased recruitment.