Solidarity walkout by France telecom workers

There were a series of walkouts across the country today as workers showed solidarity with their dead colleagues and protested against the work pressures that lead to his death.

In Annecy-le-Vieux, where the dead man worked over 100 of his colleagues walked out in solidaarity and held a demonstration. In Bordeaux 200-300 workers also downed tools and took to the streets. There was also a demonstration at the regional headquarters in Lyon by over 600 workers.

Workes are angry at unattainable targets, changes to working conditions and forced relocations. Since privatisation 11 years ago the company has reduced its staff by 40000 to 100000.

CEO Didier Lombard was booed when he tried to address workers in Annecy-Le-Vieux and has also come under political pressure: he has been summoned to meet with the employment minister and seen calls for his resignation from the Socialist Party, the New Anti-Capitalist Party and from Communist party deputies. France Telecom has responded by offering to set up a freephone stress hotline for employees.