There's no fuel problems in Charente Maritime. As far as the strikes are concerned, the French unions have for years, successfully fought off any attempt to change their working conditions. A TGV train driver retires at 50. If he has at least 15 years service, he will have been earning 6000€ per month when employed. Upon retirement, he receives a pension of 4000€ per month - tax free. On top of this, he, his wife, children, parents and siblings travel at free or vastly reduced rates. He and his family travel First class free. He gets subsidised electricity. Were he to work in the electricity industry, it would be free. A college lecturer earns 6000 per month. After tax, he takes home 2400€. Fair it ain't and the government has decided to stop it.