Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Public sector strike in French Polynesia enters second week

Posted at 22:34 on 20 November, 2008 UTC

A strike by public servants in French Polynesia has entered its second week despite failing to defer a French pension reform.

The French Senate voted for gradual cuts for those getting pension top-ups overseas, with details to be finalised by the government in Paris.

Walter Zweifel reports.

“Talks are being held between the junior minister in charge of overseas territories, Yves Jego, and overseas representatives to determine by how much pensions will be downgraded from next year. Strikes have affected schools and the port where by now thousands of containers are awaiting clearance by customs officials still determined to maintain their action.”

“The absence of customs controls at Tahiti’s airport has allowed passengers to enter without having their baggage checked. Depending on the details emerging from the Paris talks, the indefinite strike could continue amid resignations by those seeking to protect their pensions before they are started to be cut next year.”