Parisians awoke to the familiar scent of rotting rubbish on Saturday morning, a stark reminder of the ongoing pension reform protests that have crippled the city and beyond. Despite an eerie calm returning to the streets, the country remained on high alert as further demonstrations were planned for the weekend. Police had dispersed crowds on Friday night using tear gas and water cannons, leaving hundreds under arrest.
The protests, which began as a push against President Emmanuel Macron’s plan to increase the retirement age without a vote in the National Assembly, have taken a personal toll on residents. “The government should change its position and listen to the people because what is happening is extremely serious,” said Isabelle Vergriette, a 64-year-old psychologist, buying her weekend baguette. “And we are seeing a radicalisation. The government is largely responsible for this.”
As the days go by, the piles of uncollected rubbish continue to grow, with some residents blaming Macron’s administration for the chaotic situation. “Food waste is our priority because it is what brings pests to the surface,” said Emmanuelle Pierre-Marie, the district’s mayor. “We are extremely sensitive to the situation. As soon as we have a rubbish lorry available, we give priority to the places most concerned, like food markets.”
President Emmanuel Macron (Via Emmanuel Macron/Twitter)
The unrest shows no signs of abating, with strikes planned for Monday in numerous sectors, including transport and energy. The Civil Aviation Authority has advised 30 percent of flights be cancelled at Orly, Paris’ second airport, and 20 percent in Marseille. Laurent Berger, head of the moderate CFDT union, condemned the violence but acknowledged the strong anger among protesters. “The retirement reform must be withdrawn,” he said on RMC radio.
As lawmakers prepare for Monday’s no-confidence vote, the fate of Macron’s government hangs in the balance. With protesters demanding an end to the unpopular reform, it remains to be seen whether the president will be able to salvage his administration.
