25 May 2013

Meeting in New Caledonia to seek end to general strike

9:41 am on 25 May 2013

A meeting is planned in New Caledonia today to try to resolve the disputes behind the general strike launched on Wednesday last week.

The meeting at the French High Commission is expected to involve the striking unions and the government as well private sector delegates to find a way of addressing concerns about the high cost of living.

The strike has led to the closure of the port of Noumea and a blockade of the fuel depot.

Flights have been disrupted and the largest supermarkets picketed.

The strike has reportedly also forced the Vale nickel company to close its plant for security reasons.