Protesters met yesterday (Tuesday) afternoon on the Rue de la Loi in Brussels. They were demonstrating against the free trade treaty between the European Union and Canada (the Comprehensive Economic and Free Trade Agreement - CETA), on the one hand.
On the other they were rising up against the EU’s similar free trade deal with the United States (the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership -TTIP).
They started the ball rolling around 5.15 p.m., with a barrage of slogans, drum rolls and whistles.
Responding to the call of the local community, hundreds of individuals immersed themselves in the procession taking them to the crossroads between the Avenue des Arts and the Rue de la Loi.
They then went up to the Schuman Roundabout, opposite the Berlaymont building (the seat of the European Commission).
Well spread out throughout the public throng, youngsters shouted themselves loudly and firmly hoarse saying “The TTIP and CETA, we don't want them!”, with others sporting placards displaying their demands.
These placard exigencies included “Power to the people, not multinationals!”, “TTIP/CETA seriously damages health!” and indeed “The people and the planet take priority!”
NGOs, trade and social unions, as well as political party representatives were also involved.
Under the watchful eye of the police, out in force, the protesters then arrived at the Schuman Roundabout, where a flashmob was organized for 6.30 p.m.
The Brussels Times
