At Monday's cabinet meeting, the French government is expected to reaffirm its determination to press ahead with pension reform, without any major concessions to the trade unions or political opposition.
Labour Minister Olivier Dussopt is expected to hold a press conference after Monday's meeting of the cabinet. He will be flanked by government spokesman Olivier Véran.
While the government has refused any substantial concessions to those who contest the reform legislation, the unions have had their position strengthened by the huge turnout at last Thursday's nationwide demonstrations against the changes.
The labour organisations claim to have mobilised at least one million protesters against the reform during last week's 24-hour strike. A two-day work stoppage is now planned for 31 January, with a major impact expected in such sectors as public transport, schools and the distribution of fuel.
Despite the success of last Thursday's strike, the government and President Emmanuel Macron are expected to use Monday's meeting with the press to reaffirm the executive's determination to see the disputed bill pass the parliamentary debate stage without undue delay, with a view to having the new law in place by this summer.
Flexibility and determination
President Macron has already shown flexibility, reducing the age limit from 65 to 64. At the weekend he refused any further adaptations, saying he did not want to anticipate the work of parliament.
"But I want the government and parliament to work together to find necessary compromise.
However, the French leader continued, "the requirements are clearly established. And, I believe, now is the time to move forward."
Ministers have repeated the message of government openness to dialogue and discussion, but they have also stressed that the crucial elements of the reform are not open to dramatic change.
The main sticking points for opponents of the bill are the decision to shift the legal retirement age from 62 to 64, and the related obligation on employees to contribute more during their working lives if they wish to qualify for a full pension when they retire.
The trade unions, most opposition groups and the majority of French workers questioned in opinion polls are opposed to the changes.
The government says reform is essential to prevent the bankruptcy of the pension system.
