Sarkozy is right to see his reforms through to the end, even in the face of sabotage, which is typical of strikes against 'big' companies and especially utilities. Socialism is a system that should be avoided wherever possible. France's present leadership sees a way to France's better future, but it will not come easily after so many decades of a paternalistic socialist regime that creates lower and middle class 'wards of the state.'
Below is the 'Special' pensions system that Sarkozy vows to change, and none too soon.
'SPECIAL' PENSIONS SYSTEM
Benefits 1.6m workers, including 1.1m retirees
Applies in 16 sectors, of which rail and utilities employees make up 360,000 people
Account for 6% of total state pension payments
Shortfall costs state 5bn euros (£3.5bn; $6.9bn) a year
Some workers can retire on full pensions aged 50
Awarded to Paris Opera House workers in 1698 by Louis XIV
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