Strike call over French job law

[XXPANTHAXX]

French unions and students have decided to step up their campaign
against a new labour law by holding a day of strikes and protests on 28
March.

On Saturday hundreds of thousands across France took part in marches and
rallies against the law, which makes it easier to dismiss young workers.

The government insists it will not withdraw the measure, which it says
will help reduce youth unemployment.

President Chirac has urged protesters to begin talks with the
government.

Unions had given the government a Monday evening deadline to withdraw
the law, but Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin said he would not back
down.

Stalemate

Under the new scheme introduced by the law, employers will be able to
end job contracts for people under the age of 26 at any time during a
two-year trial period, without having to offer an explanation.

The government says the plan will encourage employers to hire young
people, but students fear it will erode job stability in a country where
more than 20% of 18-to-25-year-olds are unemployed.

The unions say the law will allow employers to exploit young people and
have promised to "harden" their responses if the government does not
make concessions.

President Chirac reaffirmed his support for the move on Monday.

"It offers opportunities and guarantees for young people who are in
difficulties," he said.