French police reopen 3 refineries but fuel shortages still a concern as strikes continue

[News_Editor]

French police reopen 3 refineries but fuel shortages still a concern as strikes continue

2010-10-16 08:25:17 GMT+7 (ICT)

PARIS (BNO NEWS) -- Fuel shortages are being feared as French workers continued with their fourth day of nation-wide strikes on Friday in protest against President Nicolas Sarkozy and his administration's pension reform plans.

President Sarkozy ordered riot police teams to open fuel depots after at least 12 French refineries were shut down and pipeline to airports in Paris were cut. The teams were able to end blockades at three of the country's refineries and restored access, but oil supply in the country could face serious shortages as early as next week.

However, French Secretary of State for Transport Dominique Bussereau undermined the situation. "We have what we need for at least a month without major problems," he stated on a local TV station.

French trade unions have called on another general strike for next Tuesday. But until then, truckers are being encouraged to join the strikes as slow driving on major roads are being organized.

Railway transportation systems have been significantly affected as well, canceling services throughout the country.

Around 300 high schools were affected by the strikes on Friday as students and schools joined the demonstrations and the protest movement. General concern is being drawn from this as French history has shown that the student movement is strong and could lead to radicalism and possible street violence.

The massive strike began on Tuesday, just after French lawmakers passed a key measure of the pension reform bill, which will raise the retirement age for workers with full pension from 65 to 67.

Residents around the country began to panic on Thursday when 8 of the 12 French refineries were shut down. People created long lines at filling stations in fear of shortages.

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