At a recent meeting organised by the National Council, requested by the trade unions representing staff at Société des bains de Mer, President Stephane Valeri expressed sympathy with the management of SBM as well as with the employees, dozens of whom may lose their jobs as the company slims down its expenses in the face of a disastrous trading year.

“Nothing would be worse than to resort to a conflict between the two sides.

“It is necessary to do everything possible to avoid a serious social conflict that would be prejudicial for Monaco, for SBM and for the workforce,” Mr Valeri said.