Thousands have marched through Madrid to demand an end to austerity measures in Spain.<br /><br /> The demonstration, organised by the country’s two main unions (UGT and CCOO), is the first major protest since the government was named in November, after almost a year of political uncertainty.<br /><br /> Josep Maria Alvarez, the UGT’s Secretary-General vowed to reach an accord on austerity.<br />“These demonstrations will continue if necessary. It only depends on the government’s ability not only to discuss, but also to negotiate and make agreements.” <br /><br /> Eva Garcia, a student protester, added:<br />“We are in an unsustainable situation. Many people and students can’t live like this anymore and that is why we are here protesting. We have to keep taking to the streets.”<br /><br /> Last week, the International Monetary Fund said Spain should step up economic reforms and gradually trim its public deficit.<br /><br /> Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy adopted the current policies during his first term in office, between 2011 and 2015, as Spain emerged from a deep recession.<br />
