Controllers at SNCF have agreed to end their potential strike during the May holiday period after four representative unions reached an agreement with management on improvements to the early retirement system for railway workers. The CGT-Cheminots, Unsa-Ferroviaire, and CFDT-Cheminots signed the agreement last week, and Sud-Rail followed suit after consulting its members. This rare unanimous decision within the public railway group signifies a significant step forward in addressing the concerns of railway workers.
The agreement includes improvements to the early retirement system for railway workers with arduous positions, such as drivers. Those eligible can opt for an “early cessation of activity” 30 months before retirement, receiving 15 months of full pay for worked time and 15 months at 75% pay for non-worked time. Controllers have an even more favorable arrangement with a 36-month cessation of activity, including 18 months of 75% pay for non-worked time. This agreement aims to counterbalance the negative impacts of pension reform.
Union members overwhelmingly voted in favor of the signature, prompting Sud-Rail to forgo the May strike threat. The agreement also addresses end-of-career part-time work, offering 10% higher pay than actual time worked. Additionally, a new seniority level is set to be created to enhance the remuneration of railway workers nearing the end of their careers. This comprehensive agreement demonstrates a rare display of unity among the SNCF’s social partners and signifies a crucial step in addressing the concerns of railway workers.
The four representative unions at SNCF have agreed on an important deal with management that could prevent a potential strike by controllers during May holiday period. After signing last week, CGT-Cheminots, Unsa-Ferroviaire and CFDT Cheminots announced their intention to sign as well after consulting their members.
This rare unanimous decision within SNCF is significant as it demonstrates progress towards addressing concerns about early retirement systems and pension reform.
Under this new deal, drivers who are eligible can choose an “early cessation of activity” before retiring by 30 months earlier than expected. They will receive 15 months full pay for worked time and another 15 months at reduced pay for non-worked time.
Controllers have it even better as they will receive an additional year before retiring with reduced salary but still retain some benefits.
The agreement also offers better compensation options for part-time work near retirement age while creating a new seniority level that will increase salaries further.
SNCF’s social partners are showing remarkable unity in this agreement which is encouraging news for those who fear strikes may disrupt travel plans during May holiday period.
Overall, this comprehensive agreement marks a crucial step towards improving working conditions and benefits in SNCF while preventing potential labor disputes from occurring during peak travel times.
