Christian Estrosi, Mayor of Nice, brought together yesterday representatives from the economic sector to thoroughly assess their situation. Together, they shared the same observations and solemnly called for responsibility and calmness.
In the evening, they released a statement indicating a critical situation that could severely trouble the economic fabric and hinder growth and employment.
In response to the consequences of the Yellow Vest protests, Christian Estrosi and the representatives of economic actors, traders, and artisans make a solemn appeal for calm and responsibility from everyone:
As the holiday season approaches, local traders and artisans must be supported to work properly.
The current situation is generating a climate of fear and insecurity among economic actors, local traders, and artisans. Some businesses have been affected by the events. The repercussions on our region’s commercial activities are significant: over the past 15 days, there has been a 20% decrease in turnover compared to last year.
While the holiday season is an important time for traders, some fear they may have to temporarily close their businesses to protect them or see customers deserting, thereby jeopardizing their turnover, ability to cover expenses, and maintain employee contracts. In this context, notably, the Chamber of Trades and Crafts has implemented a support system for impacted businesses.
For the hospitality sector, there is a noted decline of more than 15% in turnover, a booking rate at a standstill for the holiday season, and a trend among visitors to not confirm their reservations. There is also great concern about the image of instability and insecurity being projected to international clientele.
We wish to kindly acknowledge the protesters who peacefully express an anger that needs to be heard. We stand in solidarity with employees who have legitimate reasons to express their anger. Economic actors, artisans, business leaders, and local elected officials are on the front line, facing with pragmatism the precariousness of employees and residents, and trying to find solutions to improve their individual situations concretely.
Violence is a failure in any form, and we unanimously condemn it. We trust the State, and first and foremost the Prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes, to ensure the safety of residents, businesses, and shops is guaranteed.
Let us not add suffering to suffering or precariousness to precariousness.
Anger must be heard and taken into account. The government must respond to the legitimate social expectations of employees. Protesters, in turn, must recognize certain progress. Violence must cease.
The country needs to hear a message of hope that addresses fears and provides a perspective. It is now necessary to emerge from the crisis and propose concrete solutions concerning purchasing power. We call upon all local elected officials and actors of community life to do everything possible responsibly to promote peace and dialogue.
