VOICED: French strike action as government defends pension reform

The transcript discusses protests in Paris against raising the minimum retirement age beyond 60, a policy initially set by President Francois Mitterrand. The French government, led by President Nicolas Sarkozy, argues that the aging population and rising youth unemployment necessitate this change to reduce the public deficit. However, socialists like Martine Aubry argue that the reforms are unfair to those who start working early. Despite large demonstrations, the government is unlikely to be deterred, with the next test being the bill's presentation to Parliament in September.

What are the potential consequences of delaying pension payments as suggested by the government?

In what ways do the protesters believe the proposed reforms are unfair to employees?