As strikes entered their third week, Philippe emerged from the talks saying he was committed to pushing through the pension reforms. Philippe reiterated a plea to unions to suspend transport strikes during the holidays. “I call on unions to allow French people to travel to see their families over Christmas,” he said. Even if the strikes ease slightly, maintenance and timetabling issues could lead to a knock-on effect on Christmas services. French unions dismiss pension changes and vow to continue strikes Read moreThe SNCF said it could not announce travel availability between the 24 and 26 December until Friday.

Source: The Guardian December 19, 2019 18:12 UTC