Vidostream | News, sport and opinion from the Vidostream's US Edition

https://vidostream.com

Macron pension reform: France paralysed by biggest strike in years

France's largest nationwide strike in years has severely disrupted schools and transport.

Workers are angry about planned pension reforms that would see them retiring later or facing reduced payouts.

Teachers and transport workers have been joined by police, lawyers, hospital and airport staff, and other professions for a general walkout.

President Emmanuel Macron wants to introduce a universal points-based pension system.

That would replace France's current system, which has 42 different pension schemes across its private and public sectors, with variations in retirement age and benefits.

"What we've got to do is shut the economy down," said union official Christian Grolier of the Force Ouvrière (Workers' Force). "People are spoiling for a fight."

Masked protesters innantes
AFP
There have been clashes between police and protesters in Nantes
 


Since coming to power, Mr Macron has pushed through other reforms including relaxing labour laws and cutting taxes for businesses.

What's the latest?

By 16:00 local time (15:00 GMT), 280,000 people had joined demonstrations in 40 cities across France, not including Paris and Lyon.

The CGT union said workers had blocked seven of the country's eight oil refineries, potentially causing fuel shortages if the strike continues.

Read More (...)

Source: BBC News:

We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. By continuing to browse, you are agreeing to our Cookie Policy.
You did not use the site, Click here to remain logged. Timeout: 60 second