The phrase famously attributed to Marie Antoinette appears to reflect the attitude of the current government, lead by the handsome, but unpopular, Monsieur Macron. A country built on a history of revolution, the French are renowned for fighting back when they are not happy with changes or rules made by those in power. Strikes (grèves) are quite common and, of course, can be frustrating, but the outcome of standing up for themselves has resulted in an excellent welfare and health system, an education system which is affordable to everyone (depending on which degree course undertaken, University fees range from €200 to a maximum of €1000…. a far cry from the crippling HECS fees in Australia) and wonderful childcare arrangements.

Before we left, we’d seen the protests across France on TV by the ‘gilets jaune’ (yellow shirts) which, in Paris, were focussed along the Champs Élysée and the Arc de Triomphe and had turned quite violent. However, the unrest actually started in the rural areas of France, when Monsieur Macron announced he was introducing a green tax on fuel. With many rural workers having to drive long distances for work and not highly paid, they felt that they could not afford to pay the increased cost of fuel. The situation spread across France and has culminated in the riots seen in Paris, but now people are no longer just unhappy with the fuel tax, but also the inequality of living standards. An increase in the minimum wage has been demanded, as Monsieur Macron has also seen fit to hugely reduce the wealth tax, thereby making the rich even wealthier. He is viewed as a President of the rich, with no care for the workers. While he has since delayed the application of the fuel tax, it is still appears likely to go ahead, so the state of flux will continue. The majority of the population support the reasons for the protests, but not the violence seen in Paris. We saw many non-violent blockades in our area, with motorists tooting their horns in support, as they drove past. We hope it is resolved soon.

We have a few expat friends in Montmorillon, some of them British, who are in a state of angst, in regards to Brexit and the impending withdrawal date of 29th March 2019. Many are unsure whether they will be asked to leave, whilst others are rushing to apply for a Carte de Séjour. It is such an unsettled, worrying time for them.  We can only hope that an extension is granted and, fingers crossed, another referendum held, with compulsory voting this time. At least then, the decision made by all would be very clear, with no argument as to what the next steps are to be, but in the meantime, there will be many sleepless nights…

So endeth today’s sermon on politics

Bises