Sandrine Prioul, edited by Ugo Pascolo / Photo credits: ADRIEN NOWAK / HANS LUCAS / HANS LUCAS VIA AFP 9:22 a.m., January 25, 2024, modified at 9:23 a.m., January 25, 2024

This Thursday, as in many cities in France, farmers plan to march to show their anger.

But in the streets of Rennes, they could find allies: the fishermen, also angry, particularly because of a ban on fishing for a month.

The beginning of a convergence of struggles?

When the boat combines with the tractor.

This Thursday morning, no less than 80 departments are affected by the blockages of angry farmers.

But in the streets of Rennes, where around a hundred tractors are expected, the fishermen plan to join the convoy.

“With farmers, we have the same problems,” David, a fisherman, explains to Europe 1.

If farmers are angry, particularly against "the prices imposed for milk and meat", seafood professionals have "the same problem with fish". 

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An alliance that revives bad memories

In addition, from Finistère to the Basque Country, fishermen must stay at the dock for a month to protect the dolphins, a ban which is damaging the industry.

So the convoy of farmers to report their grievances to the prefect is a spotlight not to be missed. 

But in Rennes, fishermen's demonstrations have been a high-risk symbol since a mobilization in 1994 caused the Parliament of Brittany to burn down.

And even 30 years later, this memory is still present in everyone's minds, including those of farmers.

“I hope that the fishermen will know how to behave and that they will respect our movement,” breathes Laurence Colleu, of Rural Coordination, the agricultural union at the origin of this mobilization. 

And added: “Even if they have points that resemble what we have in relation to food sovereignty, it remains an agricultural fight, an already complex fight. Our demands are very specific depending on the sector.”

It remains to be seen whether this alliance will lead to a convergence of struggles hoped for by part of the political class, Jordan Bardella in the lead.