French trade unions organised their fifth in a series of nationwide protests against the government’s handling of the financial crisis. Unions had hoped for a repeat of May 1st, when they estimated more than a million marched. But at least one trade unionist warned that demonstration fatigue was setting in.

Others though remained enthusiastic. One demonstrator from the CFDT union said: “We’re here today to show that we’re still mobilised against the actions of the government, who are trying to make employees pay for the impact of the crisis which the leaders have created themselves. We are also showing that when workers go on strike, it’s not just to stay away from work.” The marches have been held since January. Unions want new government measures, including a boost for lower salaries, better job protection, and a halt to planned redundancies in the public sector. They also want to see higher taxes for the rich who are currently shielded from rates above 50 per cent.More about: France, Protest

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