Hungarian labour unions protest government austerity package

0 Comments | AFP, July, 2006

BUDAPEST (AFP) — Several thousand labour union members have demonstrated in Budapest against a government austerity package they say requires a disproportionate sacrifice from workers.

Six national unions organized the protest, just two days before parliament is set to approve a host of tax hikes that are a key element of Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsany's plan to cut down on a soaring public deficit threatening economic stability.

Disillusioned unions, several of which supported the socialist premier's re-election in April, said the government wants to raise revenue by taking money away from those who have the least. Others protested against mass layoffs.

"We have to protest against this (economic) package because it does not spread the burden equally...