Around 9,000 Romanian Unionists Protesting In Bucharest

Bucharest Gendarmerie spokesman Marius Militaru told MEDIAFAX that the protesters' numbers had grown to 9,000 by 12.45 p.m. on Wednesday. They have gathered in George Enescu Square, in front of the Athenaeum.

Public healthcare employees from the Sanitas union federation have been joined by those from other members of CNSLR-Fratia, for a joint rally and march on Victoriei Square, where the Government's headquarters are located.

According to Militaru, some 800 police officers and 1,000 gendarmes are watching over the rally and points of entry to Bucharest. He also said security forces have been dispatched in counties all over the country, to ensure road traffic is smooth and buses carrying protesters make it to the capital in time.

Union confederation leader Marius Petcu said about 10,000 demonstrators are expected to come from across the country.

Unionists demand that public sector salaries go back to the level in 2009, the minimum salary be set at 750 lei (EUR1=RON4.2670), for employees in both public and private sectors, layoff plans in the public sector be scrapped, the Labor Code remain unchanged and social protection be kept for employees facing massive layoffs.

Unionists also demand that the individual labor contract for a definite period, the collective labor contract at economic sector level and the sole collective labor contract be all maintained. They also want the current public pension law, the retirement age and the calculation methods of pensions to be kept unchanged too.

Also, unionists require that labor inspection law be amended, labor security measures be strengthened, public institutions and state-run companies be depoliticized and that the Government take anti-crisis measures meant to boost people's income and their purchase power.

Union confederation Cartel Alfa announced Wednesday it will continue the actions begun on September 20, with protests before the Government to be held Thursday, Friday and Monday. Healthcare, social assistance and education unions will take to the streets on Thursday; economy, police and prison staff - on Friday; and public administration and chemical industry - Monday, Cartel Alfa said in a press release.

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