10 Nov 2011

French Polynesian politician warns of threat of major social explosion

2:57 pm on 10 November 2011

A leading French Polynesian politician has warned the French National Assembly that there is a risk of a major social explosion in French Polynesia.

Bruno Sandras, who is one of French Polynesia's two assembly members, says the territory is on downward spiral and there is a need to find solutions without delay.

In a statement released by his Ia Hau Noa party, Mr Sandras says the political class in Tahiti has to find a consensus and open a new dialogue with Paris.

He says it is an euphemism to say social cohesion is at risk when the territory lacks provisions such as unemployment benefits.

The territorial government has warned that public sector wages are no longer assured.