Several thousand people gathered this Tuesday at midday in front of the Ministry of Health in Paris. They are demanding more resources for the public hospital and more generally for the entire health system.
Many nurses, nursing assistants, doctors, stretcher bearers, home helpers, but also some yellow vests, found themselves behind a banner "It is urgent to act". Signs "Hôpital asphyxié / I can't breathe" ("I can't breathe"), in reference to the "Black lives matter" movement, but also "Ségur = imposture", to denounce the ongoing consultations on wages and the organization of the health system, were brandished.
Incidents broke out on the sidelines of the Paris demonstration between the police and an "aggressive pre-procession", according to the Paris police headquarters. Several degradations were noted shortly after 3 p.m. In particular, a car was overturned and a bus was the target of projectile jets. The police responded with tear gas.
#Manifestation | Violent groups are trying to degenerate the peaceful demonstration by # caregivers. @ Prefpolice calls for calm and the responsibility of virulent individuals. https://t.co/xMrWw7uYM7
- Police Prefecture (@prefpolice) June 16, 2020220 events across the country
Launched at the end of May, the "Ségur de la santé" (named after one of the avenues bordering the ministry) must materialize by the beginning of July the "massive investment and upgrading plan" promised by the President of the Republic, Emmanuel Macron. A dozen unions and caregivers collectives however called for a day of mobilization on Tuesday with more than 220 rallies throughout France.
"Negotiation is always in terms of results the product of a balance of power," said Yves Veyrier, present at the Paris demonstration. The secretary general of Force Ouvrière added that "it is absolutely essential that the answers be up to expectations" and concern "all staff", including non-carers.
At his side, the number one of the CGT, Philippe Martinez, recalled his demands. “We expect a revaluation of wages and recognition of qualifications. We are awaiting the opening of beds, the hiring of staff. And then don't consider that the money you put in the hospital is a debt. On the contrary, it is an investment. "
