61.   But the document accepts the need for flexible working hours and reform of the social protection system.

62.   Daeubler-Gmelin also lambasted the government for attacking the social protection system rather than unemployment.

63.   Continuous investments in social protection, education and medical services for children were necessary, he stressed.

64.   Delegates at the conference representing governments, employers and workers did support a proposal to set up a Palestinian fund for employment and social protection.

65.   Diouf also called on former communist countries to strengthen social protection to ensure support for the reform process underway.

66.   The strikes are directed against a bid by the French government to force through radical reform of the debt-ridden social protection system dear to French workers.

67.   The two countries agreed to sign an agreement on the payment of pensions and other rights acquired during the working life, social protection and others.

68.   These combine deep cuts in welfare and social protection with pro-business incentives and tax-breaks for the better-off.

69.   They said that at the slightest government concession on the planned reform of the social protection system, the franc could be driven lower.

70.   They are also demanding reform of the tax system, measures against unemployment and an increase in social protection.