【明報專訊】Strikes have broken out in all parts of France against a reform of its retirement system. Under the new system, workers would retire at 62 rather than at 60. A number of trade unions went on strike, causing disruptions to land, sea and air transport services. The Eiffel Tower had to be closed. It is reckoned more workers than ever have come out on strike.
The strikes have disrupted fuel supply in France. More than a third of the country's 1,800 main petrol stations are running out of petrol. The government has a plan for tackling the fuel shortage. Flight services are expected to suffer further disruptions when the largest trade union of Air France mobilises its members to strike.
■Keywords
strike……罷工
demonstration……示威
■Questions
1.Why have French workers gone on strike?
2.How has it impacted on the country?
3.Do you think it is reasonable for workers to go on strike to express their discontent?
■Further reading
The Daily Telegraph.
"France strike disrupts flights and rail services", 2010.10.19