Riots show 'identity crisis'
14/11/2005 21:51  - (SA)  

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Paris - French President Jacques Chirac said on Monday the riots that have rocked France revealed an identity crisis to which the country would respond with firmness and justice.

"This is a crisis of meaning, a crisis of reference points, a crisis of identity," Chirac said in a televised address to the nation.

"We will respond with firmness and justice."

"These events are the sign of a deep malaise.

Some people started fires in their own neighbourhoods, burned the cars of their neighbours, their friends, attacked their schools and sports centres," he said.

Chirac appealed directly to the youths from the poor, high-immigration suburbs who have been behind the unrest, as well as to their families.

"Children from these difficult neighbourhoods... whatever their origins... are all sons and daughters of the republic," he said.

"Children, teenagers need values, points of reference. Parental authority is key. Families must take their full responsibilities."

"Those who refuse to do so should be punished, according to the law.

Those who are facing serous difficulties should, on the other hand, be actively supported," the president argued.

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