The situation is particularly difficult in Hauts-de-France, where 54.8% of stations experience problems with at least one fuel.
The situation will become even more complicated this Sunday on the gas supply front. According to the Ministry of Ecological Transition, at 3 p.m., 29.7% of gas stations are experiencing problems with at least one product, compared to 21% yesterday.
Hauts-de-France and Ile-de-France are particularly affected. 54.8% of stations experience difficulties in Hauts-de-France, 59.1% in Pas-de-Calais (compared to 42% the day before yesterday and 41% yesterday); 55.8% in the north (versus 43% the day before yesterday and 39% yesterday). In Ile-de-France 44.9% was made up of at least one product.
“I would like to reaffirm the government’s very strong appeal to the leaders and unions of Total and Esso. A solution must be found without delay within the framework of social dialogue, which must take place within companies. The French must not suffer further under the consequences of a social movement. This conflict must end,” said Minister Agnès Pannier Runacher.
TotalEnergies has agreed to bring forward wage negotiations
This Sunday, TotalEnergies agreed to bring forward wage negotiations. “Subject to the end of the lock-down of deposits and the agreement of all social partners, the Company proposes to anticipate the mandatory annual negotiations scheduled for November in October,” we read in a statement.
“We are also in constant contact with Esso’s management and I expect a return from management in the coming hours,” the ministry added.
“In the past few days we have now taken measures to open fuel depots that are normally closed on weekends and to allow trucks to circulate on Saturdays and Sundays. We have also released strategic stocks and increased our imports. These measures have led to an increase in deliveries of about 20% compared to the usual flows. These deliveries are gradually arriving at service stations and professional networks. These additional volumes should allow an improvement of the situation during the day. Monday”, we can read in a press release.
The government also points to a certain panic movement among consumers. “We are faced with a rush to petrol stations beyond the usual fuel consumption (+30% in certain areas), which worsens the situation. Once again I call on all our fellow citizens not to stock up, so that everyone can do their part .”