MOSCOW, Sept 8 (Bernama-Sputnik/RIA Novosti) — French firefighters have launched a six-week strike until October 20 over a lack of funding and personnel following unprecedented wildfires that swept the country this summer, according to the France 3 broadcaster on Tuesday, reported Sputnik/RIA Novosti.
The protesters are demanding increased funding for the fire service and measures to address staff shortages, the report said. The CFDT union said the protest could also take the form of markings on fire trucks and firefighters’ uniforms.
BFMTV also reported that the strike is unlikely to significantly disrupt emergency services, as authorities can require some personnel to remain on duty to ensure the continuity of operations.
Europe is experiencing one of the hottest periods in recent years, with Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, and Greece among the hardest-hit countries.
French authorities said that the economic damage from the heatwave could reach up to €15 billion (US$17.4 billion).
— BERNAMA-SPUTNIK/RIA NOVOSTI