Eurotunnel Strike and Storm Pia Cause Christmas Travel Chaos
An unexpected strike by French workers at Eurotunnel, the undersea link between Britain and continental Europe, has disrupted cross-Channel rail traffic, causing massive disruptions on the busy London-Paris route and threatening the Christmas holiday plans of many travelers. The strike, which was called over bonus pay, resulted in the closure of terminals in France and Britain, leaving thousands of travelers stranded. The tunnel operator, Getlink, is not covered by the French law that requires a 48-hour strike notice for transport operators. The unions are demanding a tripled bonus payment, while the company has offered 1,000 euros. French Transport Minister Clement Beaune called the strike unacceptable and urged an immediate solution.