Ski lifts across France will be brought to a standstill Monday, February 24, as striking workers continue to object to government reforms.
Seasonal employees at ski stations across the country are calling for a new round of protests after an unprecedented demonstration on February 15, which included picketing, roadblocks and handing out pamphlets by 200 striking workers that impacted some 50 ski resorts.
The movement is against new unemployment benefits rules, which employees claim will by cut by 50% when, as from April 1, to qualify for the Allocation chômage d'aide au retour à l'emploi (the return-to-work allowance) they will have to work six months instead of four to qualify. For seasonal workers on the slopes, the ski season is dependent on snow and could never extend to six months.
A ski instructor in France earns between €570 gross and € 2,265 gross per month, or an average salary of €1,417 gross per month, before payment of social charges and taxes which represent around 60% of the income, according to Journal du Net.
The CGT and FO unions representing the ski lift sector say have not confirmed yet which resorts will be affected by the strike, but expect walkouts in the morning.