The new social security financing bill, passed by 315 votes to 217, contains two innovations that have sparked a lively debate in French society. Now, employed French people can voluntarily work until age 70 instead of 65, and a section specifically dedicated to airline flight crews allows pilots and flight attendants to work until age 65, instead of the current 60 and 55 respectively.
Supporters of the changes, initiated by deputies from the ruling Union for a Popular Movement (UMP) party, claim that they were adopted solely for the convenience of citizens, and that it depends only on the workers themselves whether they want to retire earlier or continue their careers. The left-wing opposition and trade unions, in turn, argue that this is the first blow to the existing retirement system at age 60.
According to RIA Novosti, starting November 12, the text of the bill will be submitted to the French Senate for consideration.