France's Unions and Sarkozy Clash Over Pension Plan

Recently in Paris, France, the various unions have clashed with French President Nicholas Sarkozy. They are against Sarkozy’s plan to change the country’s retirement system.

A move made by French President Nicholas Sarkozy in regards to France’s pension system has been deemed very unpopular. So far, it has brought backlash from many in the country. A large scaled demonstration was the product of the backlash against Sarkozy’s plan for the country’s retirement system. Throughout the streets of Paris and other cities across France, there were many that demonstrated. This could be considered a major event as the five largest unions of the country has made a call forth to all members. All five unions urged people to take to the streets throughout France and protest and denounce the plan by Sarkozy. Under this plan, one would have to work for at least 41 years over the required 40 years to get a full pension. The main demonstration against Sarkozy’s plan will be taking place through the streets of Paris. But, that was not the only dispute that Sarkozy comes across. The port and fishing industry workers clashed with Sarkozy. In that regard, Sarkozy plans to privatize part of the industry. However, Sarkozy is not backing down. The government explains that public finances are low and people are living longer are the reasons for this new pension plan. Critics could perceive this as punishing those for living a longer life. But, that is Sarkozy’s side of the argument. Opponents present the argument that the main problem is that many companies will use a systematic method to get rid of workers once they reach their 50s. On one side of the coin, there are the combined factors of public funding and increases in one’s life expectancy. On the other side of the coin, there is the aspect of companies getting rid of workers in their 50s. This will be one interesting clash between the five largest unions of France and Sarkozy’s administration. It may also hurt Sarkozy’s chances of getting reelected into office.