550,000 Join Protests Across France; Historic Limoges City Hall Set Ablaze
Dragon Media News Desk
About 550,000 people took part in nationwide protests in France on Saturday against the rising cost of living, fuel prices and the state of public services, according to the government. Organisers put the turnout at 800,000. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said 1,200 people had been arrested and 150 police officers injured in violence during the demonstrations.
The historic city hall in Limoges, central France, was set on fire during the protests. Local officials said the 143-year-old building, completed in 1883, was severely damaged and its roof collapsed. The fire was not near the presidential palace in Paris; Limoges is a separate city outside the capital.
French media reported that the unrest grew out of student protests over teacher shortages and deteriorating school facilities. Trade unions, farmers, students and supporters of the Yellow Vest movement later joined in. Protesters called for higher wages and pensions, lower living costs and improved public services. While many demonstrations were peaceful, some cities saw arson, looting and clashes with police.
Two details in the Deshsanchar report require correction: the latest reported arrest figure was 1,200, not 12,000; and the historic building that burned was Limoges City Hall, not a building near the presidential palace.
