Paris, France (CNN) -- About 1,000 gas stations across France have run out of fuel because of nationwide strikes that are affecting transportation, Alexandre de Benoist, a Union of Independent Oil Importers official told CNN Monday.
The shortages are the latest development between the unions and the French government that wants to raise the retirement age from 60 to 62. The government, which says France can no longer afford the earlier retirement payments, has shown no sign of backing down.
The service stations are out of fuel because striking workers are blocking access to French oil refineries and oil depots, de Benoist said.
The problem is not a lack of fuel, he added, saying: "There is enough fuel in stock for several weeks".
But French unions say production has stopped at all 12 of the nation's refineries.
French drivers lined up to fill their cars on Friday, fearing shortages.
French workers began their latest round of nationwide strikes a week ago, protesting against government plans to raise the retirement age from 60 to 62 and institute other pension reforms.
Half the flights from Paris's Orly airport will be canceled Tuesday because of the strikes, and 30 percent of flights from other airports in the city will be canceled, the French aviation authority announced Monday.
CNN
