Low wages, poor and inadequate resources, understaffing, poor infrastructure, hollow promises and so on - the list goes on for French health care workers. The conditions have been made worse due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Thousands of doctors and paramedics took to the streets on Tuesday, demanding better working conditions. Soon, the protest turned violent when hundreds of black-clad demonstrators started attacking French riot police. Riot police had to fire tear gas to disperse the crowd.

According to the police, fringe groups had hijacked the protest and anarchist protesters known as "black bloc" were attacking the officers because of which the agitation turned violent. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/french-health-care-workers-protest-against-poor-services-301759#better-working-conditions-demanded-301742">In pics: French health care workers protest against poor services</a>

The police headquarters in Paris tweeted, "Violent groups are trying to escalate tensions at the peaceful demonstration held by healthcare workers."

Police have arrested at least 16 protests so far.

The health care workers' movement began last year, but had to be put on hold due to the coronavirus outbreak. The workers say the coronavirus crisis has further exposed the cracks within the healthcare system.

They expressed their frustration with signs that read, "Applause during the COVID, what now?!" and "You count your euros, we count our dead." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-like-pandemics-are-a-direct-consequence-of-natural-exploitation-306526">Also Read: Coronavirus-like pandemics are a direct consequence of natural exploitation</a>

A 25-year-old nurse, Agathe Schlesser, said, "For a nurse that comes from the province (outside Paris), we're looking for stability in Paris, while it's currently impossible. we're seeing a gap in posts that are not renewed, people leave and we realise that in our healthcare service, we're lacking 18 nurses.''

The French government has promised a reform of the healthcare system, with massive investment and greater appreciation, but labour unions in support of health workers say the government response is insufficient.

"We expect salary increases and the recognition of qualifications. We want more beds, the hiring of more personnel, the re-opening of closed hospitals, and of course, for them not to think that the money we're putting into hospitals is a debt. on the contrary, it's an investment, and so we should stop talking about debt when it comes to public hospitals," said the leader of CGT Labour Union, Philippe Martinez. 
&nbsp;

Low wages, poor and inadequate resources, understaffing, poor infrastructure, hollow promises and so on - the list goes on for French health care workers. The conditions have been made worse due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Low wages, poor and inadequate resources, understaffing, poor infrastructure, hollow promises and so on - the list goes on for French health care workers. The conditions have been made worse due to the coronavirus pandemic. Thousands of doctors and paramedics took to the streets on Tuesday, demanding better working conditions. Soon, the protest turned violent when hundreds of black-clad demonstrators started attacking French riot police. Riot police had to fire tear gas to disperse the crowd. According to the police, fringe groups had hijacked the protest and anarchist protesters known as "black bloc" were attacking the officers because of which the agitation turned violent. In pics: French health care workers protest against poor services The police headquarters in Paris tweeted, "Violent groups are trying to escalate tensions at the peaceful demonstration held by healthcare workers." Police have arrested at least 16 protests so far. The health care workers' movement began last year, but had to be put on hold due to the coronavirus outbreak. The workers say the coronavirus crisis has further exposed the cracks within the healthcare system. They expressed their frustration with signs that read, "Applause during the COVID, what now?!" and "You count your euros, we count our dead." Also Read: Coronavirus-like pandemics are a direct consequence of natural exploitation A 25-year-old nurse, Agathe Schlesser, said, "For a nurse that comes from the province (outside Paris), we're looking for stability in Paris, while it's currently impossible. we're seeing a gap in posts that are not renewed, people leave and we realise that in our healthcare service, we're lacking 18 nurses.'' The French government has promised a reform of the healthcare system, with massive investment and greater appreciation, but labour unions in support of health workers say the government response is insufficient. "We expect salary increases and the recognition of qualifications. We want more beds, the hiring of more personnel, the re-opening of closed hospitals, and of course, for them not to think that the money we're putting into hospitals is a debt. on the contrary, it's an investment, and so we should stop talking about debt when it comes to public hospitals," said the leader of CGT Labour Union, Philippe Martinez.

Protest by French health care workers turns violent

The outrage generated by Floyd's death in Minneapolis last month has resonated in France as a wave of anger continued to sweep the world following the death of African American George Floyd.

The outrage generated by Floyd's death in Minneapolis last month has resonated in France as a wave of anger continued to sweep the world following the death of African American George Floyd. The protesters gathered in Place de la Republique in Paris and chanted "No justice, no peace" beneath the statue of Marianne, who personifies the French Republic. One banner held by the crowd read: "I hope I don’t get killed for being black today". Police refused organisers permission to march to the Opera House. The first clashes erupted after three hours of peaceful gathering. Some protesters hurled bottles, paving stones and bicycle wheels at police lines and one Orange outlet was vandalised. Organisers urged protesters with children to leave. Assa Traore, sister of 24-year-old Adama Traore, who died near Paris in 2016 after police detained him, addressed Saturday's protest. "The death of George Floyd has a strong echo in the death in France of my little brother," she said. "What's happening in the United States is happening in France. Our brothers are dying." Traore's family say he was asphyxiated when three officers held him down with the weight of their bodies. Authorities say the cause of his death is unclear. Earlier this week, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner acknowledged there were "proven suspicions of racism" within French law enforcement agencies. Protests took place in other countries on Saturday, including in several Australian cities, Taipei, Zurich and London. With inputs from Reuters)

French protesters clash with police at anti-racism protests in Paris

Riot police fired tear gas to prevent thousands of anti-racism protesters marching through central Paris on Saturday, as a wave of anger continued to sweep the world following the death of African American George Floyd.

The protesters gathered in Place de la Republique, where the crowd chanted "No justice, no peace" and some climbed the statue of Marianne, who personifies the French Republic. Police refused organisers permission to proceed to the Opera House.

The protest was generally peaceful but after three hours skirmishes broke out. Organisers urged protesters with children to leave as riot police charged pockets of protesters and projectiles were thrown at police lines.

The outrage generated by Floyd's death in Minneapolis last month has resonated in France, in particular in deprived city suburbs where rights groups say that accusations of brutal treatment by French police of residents of often immigrant background remain largely unaddressed.

Assa Traore, sister of 24-year-old Adama Traore, who died near Paris in 2016 after police detained him, addressed Saturday's protest.

"The death of George Floyd has a strong echo in the death in France of my little brother," she said. "What's happening in the United States is happening in France. Our brothers are dying."

Traore's family say he was asphyxiated when three officers held him down with the weight of their bodies. Authorities say the cause of his death is unclear.

One banner carried by the crowd in the Place de la Republique read: "I hope I don’t get killed for being black today". Another carried a message for the government: "If you sow injustice, you reap a revolt."

Earlier this week, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner acknowledged there were "proven suspicions of racism" within French law enforcement agencies.

His remarks drew condemnation from police unions, which said officers were being scapegoated for deep-rooted social ills. Police have held their own protests in cities across France this week.

Ahead of the protest, in the ethnically diverse Paris suburb of Belleville, one man of Algerian descent said he had been the victim of police violence but he doubted institutional racism ran through the force.

"I've been insulted, hit even. But the police aren't all the same," he told Reuters TV, identifying himself as Karim. "Unfortunately, this minority is hurting the police."

Far-right activists unfurled a banner with the words "anti-white racism" from the rooftop of a building overlooking the protest. Residents emerged onto their balconies and ripped it up using with knives and scissors, to cheers from below.

Protests took place in other countries on Saturday, including in several Australian cities, Taipei, Zurich and London.

Riot police fired tear gas to prevent thousands of anti-racism protesters marching through central Paris on Saturday, as a wave of anger continued to sweep the world following the death of African American George Floyd.

Riot police fired tear gas to prevent thousands of anti-racism protesters marching through central Paris on Saturday, as a wave of anger continued to sweep the world following the death of African American George Floyd. The protesters gathered in Place de la Republique, where the crowd chanted "No justice, no peace" and some climbed the statue of Marianne, who personifies the French Republic. Police refused organisers permission to proceed to the Opera House. The protest was generally peaceful but after three hours skirmishes broke out. Organisers urged protesters with children to leave as riot police charged pockets of protesters and projectiles were thrown at police lines. The outrage generated by Floyd's death in Minneapolis last month has resonated in France, in particular in deprived city suburbs where rights groups say that accusations of brutal treatment by French police of residents of often immigrant background remain largely unaddressed. Assa Traore, sister of 24-year-old Adama Traore, who died near Paris in 2016 after police detained him, addressed Saturday's protest. "The death of George Floyd has a strong echo in the death in France of my little brother," she said. "What's happening in the United States is happening in France. Our brothers are dying." Traore's family say he was asphyxiated when three officers held him down with the weight of their bodies. Authorities say the cause of his death is unclear. One banner carried by the crowd in the Place de la Republique read: "I hope I don’t get killed for being black today". Another carried a message for the government: "If you sow injustice, you reap a revolt." Earlier this week, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner acknowledged there were "proven suspicions of racism" within French law enforcement agencies. His remarks drew condemnation from police unions, which said officers were being scapegoated for deep-rooted social ills. Police have held their own protests in cities across France this week. Ahead of the protest, in the ethnically diverse Paris suburb of Belleville, one man of Algerian descent said he had been the victim of police violence but he doubted institutional racism ran through the force. "I've been insulted, hit even. But the police aren't all the same," he told Reuters TV, identifying himself as Karim. "Unfortunately, this minority is hurting the police." Far-right activists unfurled a banner with the words "anti-white racism" from the rooftop of a building overlooking the protest. Residents emerged onto their balconies and ripped it up using with knives and scissors, to cheers from below. Protests took place in other countries on Saturday, including in several Australian cities, Taipei, Zurich and London.

Anti-racism protesters clash with police in Paris

Paris's zoo re-opened on Monday (June 8) after a three month closure because of COVID-19 shutdown with 62 new residents.

Paris zoo re-opens with 62 new residents born during coronavirus shutdown

An art gallery in Paris has turned to 'winged' headware inspired by an ancient Chinese dynasty to ensure its visitors respect coronavirus social distancing rules as they peruse the displays.

Winged hats introduced at Paris gallery for social distancing

Paris shows the way: Cafes use sidewalks as they reopen after lockdown

Renaud Capucon, a French concert violinist accustomed to playing to rooms of 2,000 people and more, performed on Thursday (May 28) evening for an audience of zero, but he said the experience was none the worse for it.

Playing to an empty room: Orchestra gives COVID Concert

Paris bookstore Ici Librairie redrew its floor plan as it reopened on Monday (May 11) after France lifted strict lockdown measures in the fight against the novel coronavirus.

Paris bookstore reopens after lockdown, stacking alcohol gel next to bestsellers

After non-essential stores reopened in France on Monday, many hairdressing salons said they were fully booked as people rushed back for a trim or touch-up.

Parisians seek post-lockdown beauty upgrade

A day after exiting an eight-week coronavirus lockdown, Parisians are already making their way back to cosmetics stores and beauty parlours on Tuesday (May 12), ready to glam up for the outside world again even from under their face masks.

Pampering time: Parisians seek post-lockdown beauty upgrade

On the eve of an easing of measures to combat COVID-19, Paris authorities projected portraits of frontline workers who have kept the city going during its two month lockdown at the Eiffel Tower on Sunday (May 10).

Paris celebrates frontline workers with Eiffel Tower display

As France's coronavirus cases decrease, the country has allowed its citizens to return back to their normal life. This includes sending students back to schools.

Schools are set to welcome students back to the classes from Monday. However, parents fear that the decision might not be good for their kids.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-cases-cross-396-million-death-toll-increases-to-273000-297709">Also read:&nbsp;COVID 19: Cases cross 3.96 million, death toll increases to 273,000</a>

The number of coronavirus cases decreased significantly. Following that, the French government lifted some restrictions on the strict lockdown that had continue for more than eight weeks.

The government, in order to revive its economy, decided to let people return back to their offices and step out of their houses , while maintaining social distancing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outbreaks-in-germany-south-korea-show-life-beyond-lockdown-isnt-what-people-think-itll-be-297680">Also read:&nbsp;Outbreaks in Germany, S Korea show life after lockdown isn't what people think</a>

The schools have been allowed to start classes. For now, only preschools and elementary schools are set to start. However, only 10 students will be allowed to sit in a preschool class and 15 in other classes. Administrators were told to prioritize instruction for children ages 5, 6 and 10. High schools have not got the green light yet.

The government has made it clear that the attendance will not be compulsory, for now, considering the fear of the spread of coronavirus.

Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer estimated that 80% to 85% of France's 50,500 preschools and elementary schools will open this week. Junior high schools in regions with fewer virus cases are expected to reopen on May 18.

While the parents are allowed to send their kids to the school, provided the school can accommodate them, they are worried about keeping their kids safe. A lot of parents fear that the kids might face the danger of getting infected.

Total number of coronavirus cases rose to 174,791 in France, including 25,987 deaths.

As France's coronavirus cases decrease, the country has allowed its citizens to return back to their normal life. This includes sending students back to schools.

As France's coronavirus cases decrease, the country has allowed its citizens to return back to their normal life. This includes sending students back to schools. Schools are set to welcome students back to the classes from Monday. However, parents fear that the decision might not be good for their kids. Also read: COVID 19: Cases cross 3.96 million, death toll increases to 273,000 The number of coronavirus cases decreased significantly. Following that, the French government lifted some restrictions on the strict lockdown that had continue for more than eight weeks. The government, in order to revive its economy, decided to let people return back to their offices and step out of their houses , while maintaining social distancing. Also read: Outbreaks in Germany, S Korea show life after lockdown isn't what people think The schools have been allowed to start classes. For now, only preschools and elementary schools are set to start. However, only 10 students will be allowed to sit in a preschool class and 15 in other classes. Administrators were told to prioritize instruction for children ages 5, 6 and 10. High schools have not got the green light yet. The government has made it clear that the attendance will not be compulsory, for now, considering the fear of the spread of coronavirus. Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer estimated that 80% to 85% of France's 50,500 preschools and elementary schools will open this week. Junior high schools in regions with fewer virus cases are expected to reopen on May 18. While the parents are allowed to send their kids to the school, provided the school can accommodate them, they are worried about keeping their kids safe. A lot of parents fear that the kids might face the danger of getting infected. Total number of coronavirus cases rose to 174,791 in France, including 25,987 deaths.

Students in France to return to schools; parents disagree

The two ducks resting on the plinth of a statue in front of Paris's Musee D'Orsay had struck out boldly from their usual habitat: to get there from the River Seine involves waddling across a four-lane highway.

What lockdown? Birds go out in Paris with humans in confinement

In Paris, teddy bears are practising social distancing to bring smiles to people's faces as France approaches its sixth week in confinement.

Teddy bears remind Paris of social distancing at newspaper store

Parisians have been in lockdown for nearly five weeks on Sunday (April 19), and many are already looking forward to May 11th, the date set by French President Emmanuel Macron as the end of the confinement period.

A haircut, a hug, a drink at a bar: Parisians dream of end to lockdown

A year on from the inferno that gutted Notre-Dame de Paris and stunned the world, the cathedral's great bell will ring out on Wednesday (April 15) evening, as a mark of the building's resilience and that of the medics battling France's coronavirus epidemic.

On fire's anniversary, Notre-Dame's great bell to break its silence

A look back at Notre-Dame Cathedral fire tragedy exactly a year ago

April 9 in history: First public art exhibition, Germany invades Denmark and more

Parisians thronged the city's rail stations and took to the highway early on Tuesday to escape the French capital before a lockdown imposed to slow the rate of coronavirus contagion kicked in at midday.

The Paris exodus drew dismay from provincial France, where many fear that city-dwellers will bring the virus with them and accelerate its spread.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-closes-shops-restaurants-tells-people-to-stay-home-286448">France closes shops, restaurants, tells people to stay home</a>

Health Minister Olivier Veran said the government had no intention of preventing people travelling to secondary residences but said the stringent restrictions on public life would apply on the coast as they would in the city.

<img alt="Covid-19 in Paris" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a94b999c-06c4-497f-b1db-63dfafdf4150" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2860%29.jpg" />

At Paris' Gare du Nord, passengers, many wearing masks, stared up at departure boards.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-effect-after-macron-trump-does-a-namaste-285974">Coronavirus effect: After Macron, Trump does a 'Namaste'</a>

"We'd rather be in a more open environment, in a bigger house with a garden, than in a Parisian apartment," said education journalist Camille, who was travelling to her mother's home in northern France with her partner. Both plan to work remotely.

France's death toll from the coronavirus has reached 148 and a total of 6,600 people have been confirmed infected.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-are-famous-french-luxury-brands-doing-to-combat-coronavirus-286622">What are famous French luxury brands doing to combat coronavirus?</a>

President Emmanuel Macron late on Monday said the country "was at war" with coronavirus and announced restrictions unprecedented in post-war France.

He ordered people to stay at home from Tuesday lunchtime. He said they should leave only to buy groceries, travel to work is essential, exercise or for medical care. The army will be mobilised to help move the sick to hospitals, he said.

Watch: Coronavirus: Italians keep their spirits up with music

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-italians-keep-their-spirits-up-with-music-286852/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Junior transport minister Jean-Baptiste Djebbari said services of the high-speed intercity TGV trains would be reduced under the lockdown to help curb infections.

But many in the provinces remained incredulous.

<img alt="Coronavirus in Paris" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="97eede83-8889-4ced-aee6-e0deac9398b3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2859%29.jpg" />

"Parisians are fleeing the city and will infect the provinces, just to be confined in the open air. This exodus is unthinkable, selfish and a ticking time-bomb," one Twitter user wrote.

Parisians thronged the city's rail stations and took to the highway early on Tuesday to escape the French capital before a lockdown imposed to slow the rate of coronavirus contagion kicked in at midday.

Parisians thronged the city's rail stations and took to the highway early on Tuesday to escape the French capital before a lockdown imposed to slow the rate of coronavirus contagion kicked in at midday. The Paris exodus drew dismay from provincial France, where many fear that city-dwellers will bring the virus with them and accelerate its spread. Also read: France closes shops, restaurants, tells people to stay home Health Minister Olivier Veran said the government had no intention of preventing people travelling to secondary residences but said the stringent restrictions on public life would apply on the coast as they would in the city. At Paris' Gare du Nord, passengers, many wearing masks, stared up at departure boards. Also see: Coronavirus effect: After Macron, Trump does a 'Namaste' "We'd rather be in a more open environment, in a bigger house with a garden, than in a Parisian apartment," said education journalist Camille, who was travelling to her mother's home in northern France with her partner. Both plan to work remotely. France's death toll from the coronavirus has reached 148 and a total of 6,600 people have been confirmed infected. Also read: What are famous French luxury brands doing to combat coronavirus? President Emmanuel Macron late on Monday said the country "was at war" with coronavirus and announced restrictions unprecedented in post-war France. He ordered people to stay at home from Tuesday lunchtime. He said they should leave only to buy groceries, travel to work is essential, exercise or for medical care. The army will be mobilised to help move the sick to hospitals, he said. Watch: Coronavirus: Italians keep their spirits up with music Junior transport minister Jean-Baptiste Djebbari said services of the high-speed intercity TGV trains would be reduced under the lockdown to help curb infections. But many in the provinces remained incredulous. "Parisians are fleeing the city and will infect the provinces, just to be confined in the open air. This exodus is unthinkable, selfish and a ticking time-bomb," one Twitter user wrote.

Parisians flee to the countryside ahead of coronavirus lockdown

France announces movement restriction due to coronavirus. Country deploys thousand police forces to ensure lockdown in the roads.

France deploy thousands police forces to ensure lockdown

Parisians appeared to ignore the French government's instructions to maintain safe distances between each other to curb the spread of the coronavirus, as they headed outdoors on Sunday (March 15) to enjoy some sun.

Parisians brush off virus fears to enjoy some sun

The chief executive of Groupe ADP, the company which runs Paris' two main international airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, has tested positive for the coronavirus, the group said Monday.

Augustin de Romanet tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday, the company said, adding that his "state of health is not a cause for concern and does not prevent him from carrying out his functions."

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-air-suspends-flights-to-europe-until-further-notice-report-285101"> Iran Air suspends flights to Europe until further notice: Report</a>

His contacts were being investigated while the CEO would stay at home for the next two weeks in self-isolation.

The two Paris airports are among the busiest air hubs in the world, with over 100 million people passing through every year.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infects-100000-plus-worldwide-21-cases-found-on-ship-off-san-francisco-284865">Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco</a>

With more than 1,100 recorded cases and 19 deaths so far, France is the second-worst affected European country after its neighbour Italy, which has imposed a sweeping lockdown on the most hard-hit northern regions.

The chief executive of Groupe ADP, the company which runs Paris' two main international airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, has tested positive for the coronavirus, the group said Monday.

The chief executive of Groupe ADP, the company which runs Paris' two main international airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, has tested positive for the coronavirus, the group said Monday. Augustin de Romanet tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday, the company said, adding that his "state of health is not a cause for concern and does not prevent him from carrying out his functions." Also read: Iran Air suspends flights to Europe until further notice: Report His contacts were being investigated while the CEO would stay at home for the next two weeks in self-isolation. The two Paris airports are among the busiest air hubs in the world, with over 100 million people passing through every year. Also see: Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco With more than 1,100 recorded cases and 19 deaths so far, France is the second-worst affected European country after its neighbour Italy, which has imposed a sweeping lockdown on the most hard-hit northern regions.

Paris airport chief tests positive for coronavirus

Louis Vuitton wrapped up Paris Fashion week on Tuesday (March 3) with a mix-up of retro-chic, sporty and futuristic looks set to a baroque soundtrack sung by a choir in costume.

Louis Vuitton unveils eclectic collection against live backdrop

British designer Stella McCartney, known for her long-standing defence of animal rights in fashion, sent models in giant farmyard onesies down her catwalk at Paris Fashion Week on Monday (March 2).

Designer Stella McCartney's humorous take on ethical fashion

The Louvre in Paris, the world's most visited museum, turned tourists away on Sunday after staff refused to work because of coronavirus fears, unions and management said. &nbsp; 
 
Around 300 staff met in the morning and voted "almost unanimously" not to open, Christian Galani of the CGT labour union told AFP. 
By Sunday afternoon, visitors were learning the news as they arrived at the entrance. 
 
"We're very disappointed," said one tourist, part of an Italian group. "It was the perfect day to go to the museum," he added under a steady drizzle of rain. 
 
"No one warned us and nothing is written on the website!" said their guide, who gave her name only as Stefania. 
 
Others complained that they had reserved tickets for the afternoon that same morning and there had been no hint of the coming closure at the website. 
 
The Louvre, near the banks of the Seine river in central Paris, received 9.6 million visitors last year, most of them foreigners including Americans, Chinese and Europeans. 
 
Louvre management later confirmed the museum was closed for the entire day and said it would refund ticket-holders. 
 
"We apologise for any inconvenience and will keep you informed as the situation develops," the museum said on its website. The museum's management could not say if it would reopen on Monday. 
 
On Saturday, the government announced several measures to try and curb the outbreak in France, including cancelling all gatherings of more than 5,000 people in confined spaces. 
 
"The Louvre is a confined space which welcomes more than 5,000 people a day," said Galani, who also works at the museum. "There is real concern on the part of staff." 
 
Workers met in the morning to discuss these fears, and Galani said management representatives were unable to convince staff to go to work. 
 
They are demanding stepped up protective measures, including the provision of hand sanitising gel and window barriers to separate cashiers from members of the public. 
 
In January, workers also forced a one-day closure in a strike over the government's pension reform plans.&nbsp; 
 
Earlier this week, the museum ended a special Leonardo da Vinci exhibition with an all-time visitors' record of nearly 1.1 million people. 
 
France now has 130 confirmed cases of the virus, the country's director-general of health Jerome Salomon said Sunday: 12 people have made a complete recovery, 116 are in hospital and two people have died.

The Louvre in Paris, the world's most visited museum, turned tourists away on Sunday after staff refused to work because of coronavirus fears, unions and management said.

The Louvre in Paris, the world's most visited museum, turned tourists away on Sunday after staff refused to work because of coronavirus fears, unions and management said. Around 300 staff met in the morning and voted "almost unanimously" not to open, Christian Galani of the CGT labour union told AFP. By Sunday afternoon, visitors were learning the news as they arrived at the entrance. "We're very disappointed," said one tourist, part of an Italian group. "It was the perfect day to go to the museum," he added under a steady drizzle of rain. "No one warned us and nothing is written on the website!" said their guide, who gave her name only as Stefania. Others complained that they had reserved tickets for the afternoon that same morning and there had been no hint of the coming closure at the website. The Louvre, near the banks of the Seine river in central Paris, received 9.6 million visitors last year, most of them foreigners including Americans, Chinese and Europeans. Louvre management later confirmed the museum was closed for the entire day and said it would refund ticket-holders. "We apologise for any inconvenience and will keep you informed as the situation develops," the museum said on its website. The museum's management could not say if it would reopen on Monday. On Saturday, the government announced several measures to try and curb the outbreak in France, including cancelling all gatherings of more than 5,000 people in confined spaces. "The Louvre is a confined space which welcomes more than 5,000 people a day," said Galani, who also works at the museum. "There is real concern on the part of staff." Workers met in the morning to discuss these fears, and Galani said management representatives were unable to convince staff to go to work. They are demanding stepped up protective measures, including the provision of hand sanitising gel and window barriers to separate cashiers from members of the public. In January, workers also forced a one-day closure in a strike over the government's pension reform plans. Earlier this week, the museum ended a special Leonardo da Vinci exhibition with an all-time visitors' record of nearly 1.1 million people. France now has 130 confirmed cases of the virus, the country's director-general of health Jerome Salomon said Sunday: 12 people have made a complete recovery, 116 are in hospital and two people have died.

Paris's Louvre museum closes over staff coronavirus fears

Asia Bibi, the Pakistan Christian woman who spent 8 years on death row in Pakistan has been given honorary citizenship of Paris. Asia was convicted under Pakistan's strict blasphemy law in 2010.

Asia Bibi now a Parisian

France is now facing a new plague that involves blood-sucking parasites. A campaign has been launched by the French government to combat an influx of bedbugs that have settled in homes and hotels to feed on human blood.

France is now facing a new plague that involves blood-sucking parasites. A campaign has been launched by the French government to combat an influx of bedbugs that have settled in homes and hotels to feed on human blood. The insects vanished from the nation in the 1950s, but the Ministry of Housing states that their numbers have grown due to international travel and developing a resistance to insecticide as the main cause. Also Read: Air India comes under fire after bed bugs found on flight A webpage created by the government to address the issue warned the public of the severity of the problem, complete with advice on how to prevent and treat an infestation, and a number to call for expert help. [ Common bed bugs (Courtesy: National Pest Management Association, PestWorld.org) ] Cimex lectularius or the common bed bug is found in temperate climates in the United States and parts of Europe. The widespread use of insecticides such as DDT made the six-legged pest relatively easy to eradicate after World War-II, but banning such potent poisons hailed a bed bug revival. New York was the new hub of the vampiric vermin by the 1990s and a 2010 outbreak saw them invade high-end apartment buildings, hotels, even clothing stores. Now, the recent victim of the pestilence is Paris, and the insects reportedly cost billions of dollars annually to exterminate by businesses and homeowners. A study in 2016 discovered that bed bugs had become resistant to pesticides, following which another study revealed that the insects sought out human scents and snuggled up in worn clothes to be taken by unsuspecting victims to their homes, explaining their meteoric spread around the world. The pests are nocturnal by nature and target sleeping victims, often leaving red, itchy welts. Extermination experts stated that around 400,000 addresses including hotels, apartments and houses were treated in 2018, which represented a 33 per cent increase in bedbug infestations as compared to the previous year. [ Bites caused by bed bugs (Courtesy: Healthline) ] Also Read: Emmanuel Macron's lieutenant Benjamin Griveaux out of Paris Mayoral race for sexting The issue of bedbugs has transcended their role as a household issue and is now being discussed on a political scale. It has been featured in the Paris 2020 electoral campaign, with mayoral hopeful Benjamin Griveaux promising to clean up the capital in 100 days. The candidate, who has since bowed out over a sex-tape scandal, planned on including specialised anti-pest “brigades” targeting bed bugs, rats and cockroaches, which would intervene free of charge for low-income households, and at the lowest market price for others.

Paris launches new offensive against old enemy, bed bugs

Paris is preparing for a new municipal election, rats have become the focal point of Paris's municipal campaigns, with incumbent mayor Anne Hidalgo putting forward new generation bins supposed to deprive them of food, while the opposition boasts of setting up an application to report them.

Paris: Rats infestation a major issue ahead of municipal polls

French police held a Russian activist and his girlfriend for interrogation after the former claimed he released sex videos that brought down President Emmanuel Macron's favoured candidate for Paris mayor.

The artist was arrested on Saturday in connection with a fight at a New Year's party.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuel-macrons-lieutenant-benjamin-griveaux-out-of-paris-mayoral-race-for-sexting-280720">Emmanuel Macron's lieutenant Benjamin Griveaux out of Paris Mayoral race for sexting</a>

Pyotr Pavlensky, who received asylum in France in 2017 after his radical protests in Russia, leaked screenshots of an online chat in which centrist ruling party's Benjamin Griveaux was allegedly sexting a woman. Pavlensky also said that the woman was not Griveaux's wife.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Pavlensky's French girlfriend, Alexandra de Taddeo, believed to be the recipient of the videos sent in 2018.

Police, on Sunday, however, turned their attention to the video released this week online that showed a man masturbating, and racy messages sent to a woman.

The videos led to Griveaux abruptly calling off his campaign, a first in France, where politicians in the past tried to brush off sex scandals as private matters.

French politicians, cutting across party lines, also denounced the leak of the videos, which many believe is an unacceptable Americanisation of politics in France. French media has also criticized the act.

"Everyone has the right to their secret garden," the speaker of the National Assembly, Richard Ferrand, told the Journal du Dimanche weekly.

Taddeo has also been arrested on the grounds of invasion of privacy and publishing sexual content without consent.

On Friday, Pavlensky said that he leaked the video in order to expose the "hypocrisy" of 42-year-old Griveaux and intended to post similar videos to expose the newly created "political porn platform".

Griveaux "is someone who constantly brings up family values, who says he wants to be the mayor of families and always cites his wife and children as an example. But he is doing the opposite," Pavlensky had said.

After Griveaux's pull out, French Health Minister Agnes Buzyn run from Macron's party for the post of mayor.

(with inputs of AFP and Reuters)

&nbsp;

French police held a Russian activist and his girlfriend for interrogation after the former claimed he released sex videos that brought down President Emmanuel Macron's favoured candidate for Paris mayor.

French police held a Russian activist and his girlfriend for interrogation after the former claimed he released sex videos that brought down President Emmanuel Macron's favoured candidate for Paris mayor. The artist was arrested on Saturday in connection with a fight at a New Year's party. Also read: Emmanuel Macron's lieutenant Benjamin Griveaux out of Paris Mayoral race for sexting Pyotr Pavlensky, who received asylum in France in 2017 after his radical protests in Russia, leaked screenshots of an online chat in which centrist ruling party's Benjamin Griveaux was allegedly sexting a woman. Pavlensky also said that the woman was not Griveaux's wife. Pavlensky's French girlfriend, Alexandra de Taddeo, believed to be the recipient of the videos sent in 2018. Police, on Sunday, however, turned their attention to the video released this week online that showed a man masturbating, and racy messages sent to a woman. The videos led to Griveaux abruptly calling off his campaign, a first in France, where politicians in the past tried to brush off sex scandals as private matters. French politicians, cutting across party lines, also denounced the leak of the videos, which many believe is an unacceptable Americanisation of politics in France. French media has also criticized the act. "Everyone has the right to their secret garden," the speaker of the National Assembly, Richard Ferrand, told the Journal du Dimanche weekly. Taddeo has also been arrested on the grounds of invasion of privacy and publishing sexual content without consent. On Friday, Pavlensky said that he leaked the video in order to expose the "hypocrisy" of 42-year-old Griveaux and intended to post similar videos to expose the newly created "political porn platform". Griveaux "is someone who constantly brings up family values, who says he wants to be the mayor of families and always cites his wife and children as an example. But he is doing the opposite," Pavlensky had said. After Griveaux's pull out, French Health Minister Agnes Buzyn run from Macron's party for the post of mayor. (with inputs of AFP and Reuters)

Russian activist, girlfriend held after leaked sex videos that ended Macron ally's campaign

Paris Saint-Germain survived the absence of Neymar and a Lyon fightback to win Sunday night's Ligue 1 clash 4-2 at a stormy Parc des Princes, helped by Fernando Marcal's truly stunning second-half own goal.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-neymars-injury-forces-him-out-of-nantes-clash-278487">Ligue 1: Neymar's injury forces him out of Nantes clash</a>

Runaway leaders and defending champions PSG were cruising at half-time with Angel Di Maria and Kylian Mbappe giving them a two-goal advantage against a Lyon side enduring a disappointing season.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
4 goals, three points and more momentum! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGOL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGOL</a> 
 
❤️💙 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICICESTPARIS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICICESTPARIS</a> <a href="https://t.co/ovbhdGTo0t">pic.twitter.com/ovbhdGTo0t</a>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1226627887715012609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Then Marcal comically blasted the ball into the roof of his own net just after the break, leaving Lyon looking at another heavy defeat in Paris, where they lost 5-0 in this fixture last season.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
❤️ 𝙼𝙴𝚁𝙲𝙸 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGOL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGOL</a> <a href="https://t.co/HWOFawyUII">pic.twitter.com/HWOFawyUII</a>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1226634018642432000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, Martin Terrier and Moussa Dembele quickly pulled goals back, and PSG needed a late strike by substitute Edinson Cavani to secure the points.

"Normally after a goal like that the game is over," said coach Thomas Tuchel of the own goal. "But we were not disciplined enough and it was a lesson for us that it's never over."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mood?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ECavaniOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECavaniOfficial</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PSG_English</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGOL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGOL</a> <a href="https://t.co/s8QCeQ5Fwr">pic.twitter.com/s8QCeQ5Fwr</a>
— Ligue1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ligue1_ENG/status/1226637959241326592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

PSG's performance showcased why they can ill afford to be complacent heading into their Champions League last 16, first leg match away to Borussia Dortmund on February 18, even if sporting director Leonardo insisted to Canal Plus that the tie was "not life or death" for the Qatar-owned club.

They will hope to have Neymar back by then. The world's most expensive player sat out a second consecutive match here due to a rib complaint.

"We play a lot of games and errors happen but I don't know if it's the time to be too critical," Tuchel added.

"The team was great and we can't forget we were without lots of key players."

Without Neymar -- as well as his injured compatriots, Thiago Silva and Marquinhos, in defence -- Tuchel's side made it eight straight wins and stretched their unbeaten run to 21 games in all competitions.

Lyon, meanwhile, have not won in three and this result leaves the seven-time former champions in ninth place.

They are eight points adrift of the Champions League qualifying spots and their upcoming European double-header against Juventus looks certain to be a step too far for them.

How Rudi Garcia's side must have wished this match had been postponed due to the swirling wind and rain caused by Storm Ciara -- which left ticker-tape from pre-match fan displays strewn all over the pitch -- as they struggled to keep up with PSG in the first half.

PSG broke forward to open the scoring midway through the first half as Idrissa Gueye fed Di Maria to cut in from the right and beat Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes with a low strike at his near post.

Thomas Meunier then squared for Mbappe to score his 15th league goal of the season in the 38th minute after fine work by Mauro Icardi, and both Icardi and Mbappe also had goals disallowed for offside before the interval.

Then, two minutes after the break, came what looked like the coup de grace.

An attempted cutback by Julian Draxler was going nowhere before Thiago Mendes intervened, allowing Draxler to keep the ball in play and return it to the edge of the six-yard box, where the hapless Marcal slammed it into the roof of his own net.

Nevertheless, Lyon hit back with Terrier's shot squirming under the body of Keylor Navas before Karl Toko Ekambi teed up Dembele to convert his 13th in the league this season just prior to the hour mark.

Mbappe had another effort ruled out and then hit the woodwork, and it was not until the introduction of Cavani -- the fans' favourite reduced to role of bit-part player -- that the home side made sure of the points.

Di Maria set up the Uruguayan to complete the scoring 10 minutes from time with what was his 199th goal for PSG.

They are 12 points clear of Marseille, who beat Toulouse 1-0 on Saturday with a Dimitri Payet goal. Elsewhere on Sunday, Montpellier beat struggling Saint-Etienne 1-0 and Strasbourg won 3-0 against Reims, with both sides staying in touch with the European places.

Paris Saint-Germain survived the absence of Neymar and a Lyon fightback to win Sunday night's Ligue 1 clash 4-2 at a stormy Parc des Princes, helped by Fernando Marcal's truly stunning second-half own goal.

Paris Saint-Germain survived the absence of Neymar and a Lyon fightback to win Sunday night's Ligue 1 clash 4-2 at a stormy Parc des Princes, helped by Fernando Marcal's truly stunning second-half own goal. Also read- Ligue 1: Neymar's injury forces him out of Nantes clash Runaway leaders and defending champions PSG were cruising at half-time with Angel Di Maria and Kylian Mbappe giving them a two-goal advantage against a Lyon side enduring a disappointing season. 4 goals, three points and more momentum! #PSGOL ❤️💙 #ICICESTPARIS pic.twitter.com/ovbhdGTo0t — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) February 9, 2020 × Then Marcal comically blasted the ball into the roof of his own net just after the break, leaving Lyon looking at another heavy defeat in Paris, where they lost 5-0 in this fixture last season. ❤️ 𝙼𝙴𝚁𝙲𝙸 💙#PSGOL pic.twitter.com/HWOFawyUII — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) February 9, 2020 × However, Martin Terrier and Moussa Dembele quickly pulled goals back, and PSG needed a late strike by substitute Edinson Cavani to secure the points. "Normally after a goal like that the game is over," said coach Thomas Tuchel of the own goal. "But we were not disciplined enough and it was a lesson for us that it's never over." #mood @ECavaniOfficial @PSG_English #PSGOL pic.twitter.com/s8QCeQ5Fwr — Ligue1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) February 9, 2020 × PSG's performance showcased why they can ill afford to be complacent heading into their Champions League last 16, first leg match away to Borussia Dortmund on February 18, even if sporting director Leonardo insisted to Canal Plus that the tie was "not life or death" for the Qatar-owned club. They will hope to have Neymar back by then. The world's most expensive player sat out a second consecutive match here due to a rib complaint. "We play a lot of games and errors happen but I don't know if it's the time to be too critical," Tuchel added. "The team was great and we can't forget we were without lots of key players." Without Neymar -- as well as his injured compatriots, Thiago Silva and Marquinhos, in defence -- Tuchel's side made it eight straight wins and stretched their unbeaten run to 21 games in all competitions. Lyon, meanwhile, have not won in three and this result leaves the seven-time former champions in ninth place. They are eight points adrift of the Champions League qualifying spots and their upcoming European double-header against Juventus looks certain to be a step too far for them. How Rudi Garcia's side must have wished this match had been postponed due to the swirling wind and rain caused by Storm Ciara -- which left ticker-tape from pre-match fan displays strewn all over the pitch -- as they struggled to keep up with PSG in the first half. PSG broke forward to open the scoring midway through the first half as Idrissa Gueye fed Di Maria to cut in from the right and beat Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes with a low strike at his near post. Thomas Meunier then squared for Mbappe to score his 15th league goal of the season in the 38th minute after fine work by Mauro Icardi, and both Icardi and Mbappe also had goals disallowed for offside before the interval. Then, two minutes after the break, came what looked like the coup de grace. An attempted cutback by Julian Draxler was going nowhere before Thiago Mendes intervened, allowing Draxler to keep the ball in play and return it to the edge of the six-yard box, where the hapless Marcal slammed it into the roof of his own net. Nevertheless, Lyon hit back with Terrier's shot squirming under the body of Keylor Navas before Karl Toko Ekambi teed up Dembele to convert his 13th in the league this season just prior to the hour mark. Mbappe had another effort ruled out and then hit the woodwork, and it was not until the introduction of Cavani -- the fans' favourite reduced to role of bit-part player -- that the home side made sure of the points. Di Maria set up the Uruguayan to complete the scoring 10 minutes from time with what was his 199th goal for PSG. They are 12 points clear of Marseille, who beat Toulouse 1-0 on Saturday with a Dimitri Payet goal. Elsewhere on Sunday, Montpellier beat struggling Saint-Etienne 1-0 and Strasbourg won 3-0 against Reims, with both sides staying in touch with the European places.

Ligue 1: PSG aided by own goal for the ages in win over Lyon

One of the most famous faces in the world peers out from a mosaic of Rubik's cubes in a Paris auction house where a version of the "Mona Lisa" will be up for bids later in the month.

Rubik's cube Mona Lisa to be auctioned in Paris

paris

Paris, News on Paris, stories on Paris, articles on Paris, Paris stories at Wion, Paris news, Paris latest news