Paris shopkeepers fear new protests as security guard advice sparks debate

Parisian shopkeepers are worried ahead of a new protest Saturday, fearing a repeat of last weekend's damage. Authorities recommend hiring private security guards, but many say they cannot afford it. The police prefecture issued the recommendation after last weekend's violence left burned cars and broken storefronts. One shopkeeper called the advice absurd, saying she cannot even pay for her broken window, let alone hire a guard. Another merchant noted private guards are costly and may be ineffective against large, violent crowds. Some shopkeepers prefer temporarily closing their stores over paying for security, as customers have already deserted the area.