French PM calls on labor union to stop protests in Paris amid rising violence

French Prime Minister Manuel Valls on Wednesday urged the CGT union to halt demonstrations against labor reform in the French capital after violent clashes.

"I ask the CGT not to organize this type of demonstration in Paris," Valls told France Inter Radio.

"We must bear our responsibilities. We can no longer have this disgraceful show with things getting out of control," he added.

On Tuesday between 700 and 800 protestors clashed with riot police. Shortly after the start of the Paris rally, hooded youth threw projectiles at security forces who responded by firing tear gas.

Troublemakers torched three cars and defaced hospitals and banks in the French capital.

According to the Paris prefecture, 58 were arrested after the clashes which left 41 wounded people, among them 29 policemen.

In recent weeks, anti-labor reform demonstrations have turned violent in many cities. Police unions said more than 350 officers had been wounded since the nationwide rallies against labor reform began in March.

A total of 1,300 people have been arrested with 819 placed in custody and 51 convicted on charges of violent acts, according to the interior ministry.

In response to the French Senate examining how to loosen labor law to spark recruitment and reduce unemployment, the CGT union called for fresh demonstrations on June 23 and 28.
Source: XINHUA