Marseille port blocked for 11th day

French dock workers at the port of Marseille are continuing their strike, blocking freight access to the country's largest port.

The strike has been going on for 11 days.

Workers at the port in southern France are demanding better pay and working conditions.

They also want the right for workers exposed to dangerous cargos - to retire at 50.

A mediator has been appointed by the Ministry of Transport, because of a deadlock in talks.

Companies located around the Marseille port say the strike which started on November 14, has cost them hundreds of thousands in lost revenue.

Ships carrying oil have been unable to dock at the port, or to shed loads bound for nearby refineries.