“Should we be happy?” This was the question with which Jean-Jacques Romatet, the General Director of the CHU (University Hospital Center) of Nice, opened his speech. The pleased expressions of the attendees seemed to give a positive response. Jacques Peyrat, who personally came to sign the agreement, the director of the CHU, and the unions all expressed their satisfaction with the implementation of this measure.
Jean-Jacques Romatet pointed out the issues that led to this agreement. “It has been about 10 years since healthcare workers are no longer protected by their uniforms,” he declared. The shooting on July 14, 2002, is still on everyone’s mind. The General Director then praised the mayor who “has responded to the call of the healthcare workers.”
For the unions, the mayor has responded, albeit a bit late. Michel Fuentes, the departmental secretary of the Workers’ Force (FO), reminded everyone of the many actions carried out to achieve this result. “We organized large sit-ins with more than 200 people.” Proud of the mobilization, he confirmed that the unions would remain vigilant, and if the measure is not effective, they will initiate new actions. “If the measure does not bear fruit, I can tell you that the summer will be hot,” he announced.
The senator-mayor, for his part, reiterated his commitment to ensuring the safety of his citizens. He painted a rather grim picture of the situation: “Insecurity is present in parks, streets, stadiums, and gymnasiums.” The police presence in St Roch is a first step. The agreement will be reworked if it is not sufficient to ensure safety. Jacques Peyrat affirmed his “support” for the hospital, “whatever the cost.” If he believes the situation requires it, he will increase local taxes.
For now, the main actors are waiting to see the results of this experiment. But all have expressed their readiness to act in case of failure.
