Following its broadcast on TF1, the entertainment programme The Tourists, in its ‘fire service’ version, is not universally popular within France’s most highly regarded profession.
No fewer than 3.5 million viewers are reported to have watched the programme, according to figures released by Médiamétrie, the French organisation responsible for measuring television and radio audiences. This was an impressive performance for TF1, which topped the ratings for Friday evening’s prime time slot.
The Paris Fire Brigade responds
“The @PompiersFR were in the spotlight on @LesTouristesTF1. The #Pompiers13 were a bit unsure at the start of the adventure, but they put all their expertise into the production of this programme to showcase the #firefighters.” as stated in a tweet from the Bouches-du-Rhône fire brigade, thanking the presenter Arthur for “ this fine result ”.
A flood of negative comments very quickly took over social media. These ranged from ordinary viewers to the official account of the Paris Fire Brigade (BSPP), as well as trade unions and firefighters – both volunteers and professionals. “A programme that promotes ‘trash TV’ and trivialises the values of discipline, courage and discretion that characterise the profession. It does more harm than good.” the BSPP is reported to have replied. The tweet can no longer be found, but was widely screenshotted and shared.
A trade union has referred the matter to the Ministry of Culture
“You’ve got to respect a uniform!”, “Firefighters have died wearing this uniform and this helmet – it’s a disgrace”, “Let’s not forget, however, that firefighters from certain stations had produced a calendar in which they posed naked, wearing helmets, and that a similar calendar, produced by a renowned photographer, is also available at present.”, ... Although less common, other people mention the use of tongue-in-cheek humour.
Several trade unions have responded, including the SNSPP-PATS, which has, in particular, drafted a letter addressed to the Minister for Culture, Franck Riester. A copy of the letter was sent to the Minister for the Interior. Television channels alone are responsible for the programmes they broadcast, and the only body with the authority to respond is the Higher Audiovisual Council (CSA).
