Paris Airport Workers End Pre-Olympics Strike
After striking an agreement on bonuses, Paris airport workers called off a walkout that would have hampered travel just before the Olympic Games on Tuesday.
The agreement “was finalised today between three representative unions and ADP management,” according to the airport corporation, which is 50.6 percent owned by the French government.
“We’re lifting the strike warning, there’s a majority deal” among unions that threatened to walk out, said Rachid Eddaidj, secretary general of the CFDT union’s branch at Paris Airports (ADP).
Unions had called for a strike on Wednesday to demand more Olympic bonuses and worker recruitment.
According to management, they have now obtained a “standardised bonus for every worker at ADP” as well as bonuses for those assisting with Olympic delegations and their baggage.
Along with Paris’ rail stations, ADP-operated Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports will be the primary entry points into France for international visitors to the Olympics, as well as athletes and their equipment.
The corporation has invested 50 million euros ($54 million) on infrastructure upgrades, while French authorities are sending additional resources to ensure a smooth and safe experience.
Charles de Gaulle anticipates 300,000 travellers coming through in a single day, well beyond the summer daily average of 200,000.
The busiest days are scheduled to follow the Olympics’ closing ceremony on August 11, when crowds, officials, and the majority of the 10,000 competitors will return home.
Once out of the terminals, regular travelers will encounter multilingual “welcome teams” at train stations who may provide travel assistance and purchase tickets.
Police are also planning to increase patrols against pickpockets.
AFP
