2024-11-13 11:00:00
The executive is taken to task, as bad news comes one after another in the world of work. Increase in bankruptcies and restructuring projects, calls for strikes at the SNCF, in the civil service and air transport, new rise in fever among the peasantry… As a result of the difficulties of our economy and budgetary austerity measures, this Growing excitement reflects on the Prime Minister, Michel Barnier, and his troops.
This is evidenced by the unpleasant episode experienced on Friday November 8 by Marc Ferracci. Coming to meet the employees of the Michelin factory in Cholet (Maine-et-Loire), which will close its doors by 2026, just like that of Vannes, the minister responsible for industry was vigorously addressed upon his arrival in the establishment, forcing him to quickly disappear. Those around him put things into perspective, arguing that the booing only lasted a few minutes, for a three-hour presence on the scene, and that people outside the company had participated. But the skirmish shows that the government is caught up in social tensions.
Even if the number of layoffs and non-renewed temporary employment contracts remains lower today than that recorded during the 2008 economic crisis, Mr. Barnier’s team is closely monitoring the indicators, noting a worrying trend. So-called “job protection” plans, which result in cuts in the workforce, “increasing since 2023 and will continue”admitted the Minister of Labor, Astrid Panosyan-Bouvet, to the deputies on Tuesday. “It is the conjunction of both structural problems in certain sectors and a cyclical situation”she explained. Three days earlier, on France Inter, Mr. Ferracci had not sought to paint reality rosy. “There will probably be announcements of site closures in the coming weeks and months”he said, evoking “thousands of jobs” deleted.
Hotbeds of revolt
If the painful decisions taken, for example, at Michelin or Auchan cannot be directly attributed to the government, other centers of revolt appear following political arbitrations. This is particularly the case in the public service, where the prospect of a strike in the coming weeks seems more and more certain. On Tuesday, the eight main unions representing agents met to discuss a possible response against the desire of the executive to toughen the conditions of compensation for sick leave. They are in unison to contest this project.
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**Interview with Marc Ferracci, Minister Delegate for Industry**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Ferracci. There have been concerning reports about increasing bankruptcies and strikes in various sectors. How do you assess the current state of the French economy and its impact on the workforce?
**Marc Ferracci:** Thank you for having me. The state of the economy is indeed challenging. We are witnessing higher bankruptcy rates and many businesses are restructuring due to ongoing economic pressures and budgetary austerity measures. These challenges are felt across multiple sectors, creating a ripple effect that has led to increased labor unrest and ultimately strikes. It’s a difficult time, but we are committed to addressing these issues head-on.
**Interviewer:** You encountered a particularly tough reception during your visit to the Michelin factory in Cholet. Can you share your sentiments about that experience?
**Marc Ferracci:** Yes, the reaction from some of the employees was intense and, understandably, driven by their fears about job security as the factory is set to close by 2026. I must emphasize that I truly empathize with their concerns. It’s crucial for us to engage directly with workers to hear their frustrations and understand their perspectives. While the situation was uncomfortable, I believe it underscores the importance of dialogue as we navigate these challenges together.
**Interviewer:** Despite the backlash, some nearby residents reportedly participated in those protests. What does this say about the perception of governmental plans among the general public?
**Marc Ferracci:** It suggests that there is a broader anxiety that reaches beyond the immediate workforce of any single company. People are concerned about the future of jobs and industries they rely on for their livelihoods. Our government must take these sentiments seriously and work towards transparent and effective solutions that address not just the workers directly affected, but also the wider community.
**Interviewer:** Looking ahead, what steps is the government planning to mitigate the economic impacts and support affected workers?
**Marc Ferracci:** We are focusing on a multi-faceted approach, including strengthening support for job transitions, investing in new technologies, and fostering innovation within affected industries. Additionally, we are working closely with local leaders and businesses to create opportunities that can help mitigate job losses. Our goal is to ensure that workers feel supported and can transition into new roles in a changing economy.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Minister Ferracci, for your insights. It’s clear that addressing these issues will require both commitment and collaboration.
**Marc Ferracci:** Thank you. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss these critical issues. We must strive to support our workforce during these challenging times.