Joaquin, the NPA activist who spoke at the Dundee rally last night is interviewed on the SSP site.
Extract:
For many socialists in Europe we have been inspired by those recent struggles in France – what is happening at the moment?
Sarkosy came to power partly because opposition to him was so poor. With all the parties pretty much offering the same policies Sarkosy may have appeared decisive and in control and someone who could sort problems out. Particularly with the economic crisis people now just see his government as arrogant and only interested in representing the rich. Worse than that this government is aggressive particularly against young people and is reacting to the increased conflict and tension brought about by increased class conflict by unleashing the police and stepping up surveillance, something I know is happening in Britain too.
From January to March this year there was massive protests across the country and a general strike was a possibility. Partly because of the role of trade union leaders this did not happen and this has meant that perhaps things are bit quieter just now. However I do not believe this will last and more struggle will take place only this time even stronger than before.
The Scottish Socialist Party have signed up to a joint European wide declaration for the European elections on the 4th of June.
Read the statement here. Parties signed up so far are from Belgium, France, Germany : England, Greece, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Spanish State, Sweden and Switzerland.