Thousands of people supports "Seaska ikastolak" in Hendaia

Demonstration in Hendaia

According to naiz, thousands of people haver marched along the streets in Hendaia (Lapurdi, north basque country) in support of basque schools (Ikastolak) of Iparralde. The demonstration, was called after the denial of french government delegation in Iparralde to give money for one of the Ikastolak.

There have been different politicians in the demonstration: Hiriart (UMP right-wing french political party), Martin Garitano (Bildu), Laura Mintegi (EH Bildu), Maribi Ugarteburu (Abertzale left) etc.

Hur Gorostiaga, president of Seaska (the association of the Ikastolak of north basque country) have said that is necessary a new law: "French government delegations change, but we continue here". "Our function is public" so they need public money. He also said that demonstrations are going to continue.

The situation of Basque language ("euskara") in north basque country is precarius. The public schools (under the power of french government) do not teach in Basque (is only an optional subject).