PARIS: In a show of solidarity, hundreds of police officers protested across France emphasizing their demand for extra pay during the upcoming Paris Olympics.
The demonstrations underscore the potential threat of strikes and disruptions to the highly anticipated Games, prompting French authorities to engage in urgent negotiations with public sector trade unions.
Faced with the risk of tarnishing the country’s image, officials are working to reach pay agreements with various trade unions representing public sector employees who are seeking bonuses for their commitment during the July 26-August 11 Olympics.
In Paris, several hundred officers gathered near the police headquarters, expressing their discontent with chants of “The Olympics will be without us,” while waving flags and banners. Fabien Vanhemelryck, the head of the Alliance union, issued a warning, stating that the protests were just the beginning unless authorities meet their demands.
“If we don’t get the recognition we deserve for our investment, we won’t be there,” Vanhemelryck declared.
Multiple police unions had called for officers to observe “minimum activity” on the designated “Black Thursday” of protests. The Alliance union explained in a statement that, for an extraordinary event like the Olympics, they are seeking compensation of up to 2,000 euros ($2,200) per member to cover lost holidays and additional work during the summer Games.
The situation raises concerns about the potential impact on the smooth execution of the Paris Olympics, with authorities working against the clock to reach agreements that would mitigate the risk of disruptions and ensure the active participation of essential public services during the international event.
