Paris:French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced that authorities might implement additional localized curfews following violence during weekend protests over the high cost of living.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Lecornu stated on the US social media platform X that the targeted curfews already in place had "contributed to calm" and that further restrictions could be announced Tuesday evening if deemed necessary by local authorities. These decisions would be made by prefects in consultation with mayors.
Partial curfews were enforced Monday night in areas including Paris and Lyon. Additionally, Marseille plans to impose a curfew for minors in certain areas from 10 pm to 5 am starting Tuesday evening, lasting at least until Friday. Mayor Benoit Payan indicated these restrictions would focus on commercial areas affected by looting or considered at risk.
Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin reported that 149 individuals had been jailed by midday Tuesday, an increase from an earlier total of 67. Previously, it was reported that 2,513 people had been taken into custody, with about 50 judicial investigations initiated. Darmanin, speaking to CNews-Europe 1, dismissed the need for a state of emergency, asserting that order could be restored without infringing on individual freedoms.
Additionally, leaders of parliamentary groups have agreed to initiate a procedure for the National Assembly's Law Committee to become a commission of inquiry into the weekend's events, including violence, looting, and policing measures. Yael Braun-Pivet, President of the National Assembly, emphasized the need for the government to respond to the protesters' demands, noting that many had demonstrated peacefully, and cautioned against allowing policing concerns to overshadow budget discussions.
Prime Minister Lecornu is scheduled to meet with unions on Wednesday and representatives of political parties on Thursday. Patrick Martin, President of business federation Medef, criticized the state for failing to maintain order, highlighting government estimates that at least 3,000 businesses were impacted. Economy Minister Roland Lescure announced that support measures would be provided to aid affected traders and craftspeople in resuming operations quickly.
The Yellow Vest coordination group has called for another mobilization on Saturday, Oct. 24.