24 May 2013

New Caledonia strike stops Vanuatu flights

3:17 pm on 24 May 2013

A pro-longed general strike in New Caledonia against the high cost of living continues to affect flights.

Today's service between Noumea and the Vanuatu capital, Port Vila, has been cancelled.

Yesterday, the domestic airline cancelled all flights but expects to provide some services today.

The strike, which began on Wednesday last week, is aimed at forcing the government and big business to lower prices, which are higher than in mainland France.

The action has seen blockades of the port of Noumea and of the capital's fuel depots.

There have also been marches and road blocks in parts of the main island's north.