Police deploy water cannon amid Brussels union march

The main demonstration against budget austerity passed peacefully, while clashes broke out near the Central Station involving a smaller group.

The march organised by Belgium’s largest unions, ABVV and ACV, went from the Central Station to the South Station. Police estimated that about 30,000 people took part, while organisers had earlier put attendance at 50,000. Protesters opposed federal government measures they say could affect purchasing power, wage indexation, value-added tax and working-time rules.

Clashes occurred separately from the main march. Police and the Associated Press reported that a smaller group threw objects and rubbish at officers, after which police used tear gas, water cannon and batons. Authorities said those involved in the disorder were not linked to the union march. Traffic and public transport in the city were disrupted.