18 Jul 2012

Tahiti protest expected over fuel price hike

6:49 am on 18 July 2012

The French high commissioner in French Polynesia has warned that a blockade of public life in Tahiti will not be tolerated as disgruntled groups have threatened to take action today to get lower fuel prices.

Richard Didier says the authorities will assume their responsibilities even though the demands are legitimate.

Walter Zweifel reports.

"The group Te Tau no te Hono representing a cross section of professionals insists that the fuel price hike approved by the territorial government be rescinded for it to call off its planned action. Protracted negotiations have been unsuccessful and disruptions in Tahiti are expected. Fishermen say they will block the access to the port of Papeete while others say they will march onto the assembly and the presidency. The pensioners' association has joined the protest and called on its members to gather in the square outside the assembly."