CHAOS in Paris as 75,000 march against labour reforms
THOUSANDS of protestors went on a rampage against labour reforms and even vandalised a children’s hospital.
There have been violent clashes in Paris over the reforms
Rioters also threw missiles at police, the Eiffel Tower had to be closed and key travel links were disrupted.
Health Minister Marisol Touraine called the attack on a children's hospital "the revolting work of rioters".
He said: "We are talking about a children's hospital that was attacked. There were children going into the operating room at the time, some were asleep. This is truly shocking."
It was the worst violence of President Hollande’s administration as police officers dodged fireworks and shop windows were shattered.
Later in the night, several cars were torched by the rioters.
Hundreds of protestors dressed in black led a march through southern Paris.
Tens of thousands of rioters have protested in France
Prime Minister Manuel Valls has called for the protests to sotp
I want to live in dignity, not just survive
Technician Aurelien Boukelmoune said: ”I’ve been to all the demos since March because I want to live in dignity, not just survive.”
Trade unions organised a further 50 demonstrations across the country with more than a million people taking part.
Authorities made six arrests and a total of 40 people were hurt in the riots held yesterday.
The strike is the latest in months of industrial action which has seen air and rail transport disrupted, fuel shortages and rubbish piled up on the streets of Paris.
The controversial labour reforms aim to make the job market more flexible and reduce high unemployment, but critics see them as too pro-business.
The French clashes have disrupted travel and even closed the Eiffel Tower
Rubbish strikes continue but some trash removal resumes in Paris
People have been injured in the Paris strikes
The reforms would allow employers to fire workers easier and create more precarious contracts.
Prime Minister Manuel Valls has criticised the protestors and accused the CGT union, which organised the marches, of an “ambiguous attitude” towards the authorities.
Despite the heavy protests, French President Francois Hollande has said that he would “stand firm” on the reforms.
Two additional protests have been planned for later this month.
The French Government has called on the hardline CGT union to stop the protests.
The violent protests have come amid violent clashes in France linked to the Euro 2016 football championships.