Guadeloupe strike ends

A six-week strike in the French overseas territory of Guadeloupe has finally ended.



Officials said businesses have begun to re-open after being closed for over a month.



The strike came to a close after French authorities signed an agreement with the coalition of unions that launched the industrial action on January 20 to press for higher wages on the island.



The wide-ranging deal provides for a $250 monthly increase for low wage earners.



The strike paralysed the Guadeloupe economy, closed schools and businesses and forced thousands of visitors to cancel their vacations.



A month-long strike in nearby Martinique is said to be nearing its end.