Nantes: Municipal police officers on strike requisitioned amid tensions with city hall

Municipal police officers in Nantes were forced to work on June 27th after the city administration requisitioned them to break a planned strike. The union representing the officers called the action an "attack on the right to strike" and a "coercive" measure that would only strengthen their resolve. Three officers reportedly received visits from a bailiff to inform them of the requisition, requiring them to report for duty at 5 a.m. to manage the weekly market.

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It is an attack on the right to strike that will only have the effect of strengthening the determination of the social movement.

The strike action stems from the officers' long-standing demand to be equipped with firearms. This demand has become increasingly urgent following a series of violent incidents in Nantes, including five fatal shootings in less than two months. The officers argue that firearms are necessary to better confront the escalating violence in the city.

However, the city's socialist mayor, Johanna Rolland, and her Green party allies have consistently refused to arm the municipal police. This refusal has created a significant rift between the police force and the city hall. Union representative Céline Pérémarty criticized the mayor's "double discourse," pointing out her public support for workers' rights while simultaneously breaking a strike in her own city. The union also stated that the city administration has refused further meetings until the autumn, exacerbating tensions.

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The city remains on its position and refuses to arm us. We have also been informed that the city hall will no longer receive us before the fall. Meanwhile, tensions are rising among colleagues.

Adding to the complexity, the city reportedly awaits the outcome of a legislative reform concerning municipal police armament. Pérémarty suggested that elected officials might be using this pending legislation as a pretext to avoid making a decision. Meanwhile, the officers feel increasingly frustrated and unprotected, especially as another fatal shooting occurred on the night of June 27-28.

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The elected officials are hiding behind...