Disputed French jobs law ok'd

2006-03-30 19:57

Paris - France's constitutional council signed off on Thursday on a contested labour law that has sparked massive protests, leaving President Jacques Chirac with the tough decision of what to do next.

Chirac can either promulgate the law championed by his prime minister - at the risk of further strikes and demonstrations - or seek a negotiated solution, perhaps by sending the law back to parliament or by proposing modifications.

Rarely had a decision by the council, which rules on the constitutionality of French laws, been so awaited.

The student- and union-led protest movement has plunged Chirac's government into crisis, and a decision to strike it down would have offered a way out.

Lawmakers in Chirac's governing majority said they expected him to promulgate the law quickly - a decision likely to further infuriate protesters.

To soften the anger, Chirac may offer talks with labour leaders or appoint a mediator to deal with their concerns, lawmakers said.

- AP