As you can see, there's been handsome reimbursement for any hassles I may have encountered involving transportation during the "social conflicts at the end of 2007". (The transportation workers were on strike in October through December 2007, and buses and metros were "perturbed".)
Ten Euros and 36 Centimes. It's not a large amount, and yet it sets a large precedent. When the teachers next go on strike will we be reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses incurred for finding alternative care for the children? (Even though neither of us works for the moment and wouldn't be too bothered). Will we be compensated with a carnet of metro tickets when the taxis next go on strike (even though I have a velib pass and love it)? Will the French citizens be reimbursed for all the time Sarkozy has been spending on his personal relations (even though it has been fun to watch and talk about).
Striking is a well established act of democracy in France. I'd hate to see the French government pay out every time a group goes on strike. I mean, there must at LEAST one strike a week in Paris, or at least lately, when there's a new President who is trying to institute change or flex his political muscle. It's democracy in action, and it is great to see, even if it causes perturbances once in a while.
1 comment:
From all that I've read, the French government cannot afford these payments. They're already teetering on the brink of bankruptcy.
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