Today's strikes: what to expect
Trains, schools, banks and hospitals will be affected by a big national strike today, March 23
A BIG national strike will bring disruption to public transport, schools and other parts of the public and private sector today.
Transport
The SNCF rail walkout began at 20.00 on Monday night and services are not expected to return to normal until 8.00 on Wednesday morning.
Here are the latest service level estimates - although you should check locally before travelling:
Transilien (Ile-de-France suburban trains): 45% of trains running
TER regional services: 35% to 70% depending on region
Main lines to the east of Paris: "almost zero" service
Other TGVs: 65%
Eurostar/Thalys: normal service
Passengers wanting to cancel their journey can get a full refund on their ticket without any fees, regardless of the type of ticket.
Travellers can also choose an alternative train to the one they are booked on - but there is no guarantee of a seat.
In Paris, most RER and metro lines are expecting minor delays. RER B will be the most disrupted. There will be a near-normal service on the buses in Paris, although some walkouts are planned by public transport workers in other French towns and cities.
Public transport contact numbers:
SNCF (main lines and TER trains): 0805 90 36 35 or www.sncf.com
Transilien train services in Ile-de-France: 0805 700 805 or www.abcdtrains.com
Live train running information: www.gares-en-mouvement.com
Schools
A strong strike turnout is expected by teachers and creche workers, who are protesting against job cuts and changes to their working conditions.
A minimum level of service will be offered in many schools, and many creches will be closed.
More than half of nursery and primary school teachers are expected to strike. Unions say the action will be particularly disruptive in the Aisne, Bouches-du-Rhône, Pyrénées-Atlantiques and Paris.
Elsewhere
Hospitals, tax offices, Paris binmen, courts, banks, La Poste and France Telecom are also taking part in the strike. Air travel should be unaffected.
According to the CGT trade union, more than 70 demonstrations are planned around France. The biggest will be in Paris, from République to Bastille at 14.00 on Tuesday.
Unions have called the nationwide day of action in protest at the government's proposed pension reforms. The government is planning a reform of the retirement system later this year.
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