France: Louvre staff vote to suspend strike, museum reopens

Paris (France), 19 Dec. (LaPresse/AP) – The Louvre in Paris reopened completely today after staff voted to suspend the strike. This was reported by the museum management and trade unions. The decision was taken during a general meeting of workers, who voted unanimously to suspend the strike to allow the museum to welcome visitors. The strike had led to a total closure on Monday and a partial reopening on Wednesday. The unions said the suspension was decided after five meetings with officials from the Ministry of Culture, but added that progress remains insufficient, particularly with regard to staffing levels, pay and long-term security plans. They also cited concerns about the deteriorating condition of the building and working conditions. Union representatives criticised what they described as a lack of commitment on the part of Louvre president Laurence des Cars during the strike, stating that she did not meet with staff or address them during the mobilisation. Workers will hold another general assembly on 5 January to decide whether to resume the strike.