Châtellerault to welcome President Sarkozy on Tuesday

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President Sarkozy will be in the northern Vienne town of Châtellerault on Tuesday, where the effects of the financial crisis have been keenly felt in recent months.

The town was hit hard last year by the announcement that its Gendarmerie School is to close, at the same time as many local businesses continue to battle for survival.  Châtellerault relies heavily upon the car industry for employment, a sector that has been badly hit by the economic downturn.

During the last quarter of 2008, many of the local businesses that supply the car industry have cut jobs and working days in an attempt to stay afloat.  Fonderies du Poitou who make parts for Renault decided to close down on Fridays, whilst Valeo Systems, Federal Mogul and Fabris all remain in trouble, and have cut output and jobs.

The visit is likely to be accompanied by demonstrations, although Deputy Mayor Jean-Pierre Abelin welcomes the opportunity to discuss the situation with the President.

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