Massive rail disruption is expected in France in early May, after unions representing national rail staff called for a new series of strikes.
The CGT has announced its intention to join the SNCF strike from May 5, 2025 in support of the demands of train drivers and controllers. This mobilisation comes against the backdrop of growing social tensions at the railway company.
At the same time, Sud-Rail has issued a notice covering several strategic days: from 7 p.m. on May 6 to 8 a.m. on May 8 for drivers and on May 9-11 for ticket controllers. These dates include public holidays on May 8-9, as well as extended weekends.
The unions, including CGT and Sud-Rail, denounce the deterioration of working conditions, unstable timetables and wage increases that they consider insufficient. In particular, they are demanding an increase in bonuses for drivers and an increase of 100 euros per month in the performance bonus for inspectors.
The SNCF management says it is negotiating with the unions. It notes that not all industrial action notices lead to actual industrial action. Nevertheless, the growing number of calls for industrial action during this key period suggests that there will be major disruptions if no agreement is reached in the meantime.
Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete has warned that each day of industrial action results in a loss of 10 million euros ($10.7 million) of investment in the nation’s rail infrastructure.
“Those who say they care about the railway network and public investment must also take responsibility,” Vergriete said.
“By constantly calling for industrial action, they are weakening the very system they claim to be defending,” he added.
Vergriete said he hoped the unions would “return to common sense” and called on all parties to engage in good faith social dialogue.
