Taxi Drivers Across France Go on Strike, Disrupting Traffic to Protest Declining Medical Transport Pay
Taxi drivers in dozens of French cities blocked roads and slowed traffic on Monday, protesting new rates for medical transport that they say will make itlivelihood.
Hundreds of taxis descended upon the Lyon metropolitan area, previously announced demoral
Do the new medical transport rates threaten the long-term viability of the medical transport system?
Taxi Drivers Across France Go on Strike, Disrupting Traffic to Protest Declining Medical Transport Pay
Today we’re joined by Jean-Luc Dupont, President of the National Taxi Federation, to discuss the ongoing nationwide strikes by taxi drivers. Jean-Luc, welcome to the program.
**Jean-Luc Dupont:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Jean-Luc, taxi drivers across France have been blocking roads and causing significant traffic disruptions. Can you tell us why?
**Jean-Luc Dupont:** We are protesting the new rates for medical transport that were recently implemented. These rates are simply not sustainable for us. They will force many drivers to take a significant cut in pay, which will make it incredibly difficult to make a living. [[1](https://www.brusselstimes.com/898889/france-taxis-take-their-turn-to-mobilise-blocking-roads-across-the-country)]
**Host:** What are your demands? What would it take to end these strikes?
**Jean-Luc Dupont:**
We are calling on the government to reconsider these new rates and work with us to find a solution that is fair to both drivers and patients.
We need rates that allow us to earn a decent living while still providing essential transportation services to those who need it.
**Host:** Some might say that these strikes are putting a strain on essential services and disrupting daily life for many citizens. How do you respond to that?
**Jean-Luc Dupont:** We understand the inconvenience these strikes are causing, but we believe it’s a necessary step to protect our livelihoods and ensure the long-term viability of the medical transport system. We urge the public to understand our situation and support our fight for fair compensation. Do you think these strikes are justified, even at the expense of some inconvenience?
