Despite French President Chirac's pleas for the people of France to adopt the EU(European Union)Constitution, they decided not to. 70 percent of France's 41.8 million voters turned out on Mother's Day to cast their vote, with 55% voting 'no'. This virtually killed the constitution, because it needs a unanimous approval from all EU member countries. Reasons for rejecting the constitution? Some feared the loss of welfare benefits and jobs - unemployment is the #1 problem in Europe today. For some it was a protest vote against Chirac, and for others concern over immigration issues. Part of the blame falls to the feet of the political elite of France, of every political persuasion, who merely talk amongst themselves, and are out of touch with the people. Chirac counted on the fact that if all the major political parties supported the Constitution, the voters would follow. What an upset to find out he was wrong.
© Sharon Hughes 2005
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