Vive la Revolution!

Vive la revolution/La Greves!


The French workers strike again! This is our 4th visit to Paris
since 2001 and someone has been striking somewhere each
time, in past a one-day or just the museums.
This year we hit the jackpot: the entire country is involved in a
series of rolling strikes, primarily affecting transportation.
We’ve given up on taking the train to Reims or Rouen. Even
if we make it, could we get back? Ticket office was closed
yesterday and today. A travel agency said it’s uncertain.
Subways are pretty much back to normal, but the national unions
threaten an all-out effort tomorrow and again in a few days.
High school kids have joined in, fearing no jobs in their future and
no chance of retiring.
I can only look through my American eyes. Our unemployment
rate is close to their 10%; our retirement age has inched up to
67. They are fighting to retain age 60. Age 60! Christian says
because so many young and old are out of work. I still don’t
understand. If you see a good analytical article, send it my way.
Michael Moore loves the French workers because they are in
charge. In the States, unions have lost ground during the
recession (eg: our library has cut mid level union jobs in favor
of higher level non-union positions). In France, the poor
economy seems to strengthen union resolve. They want to
shut the country down until the much-hated Sarkozy gives
in and the legislature backs down. What will happen?
Vive la France!