Greece sees nation-wide strike against austerity

Source:Cntv.cn Published: 2013-2-21 14:06:48

Greeck workers led by unions representing both the public and private sector have begun a 24-hour protest aimed at severe austerity in the country.

Many Greeks continue to feel the severe pinch from a massive drawback in government spending, low growth and high unemployment. Organizers say the protests won't stop as long as tough austerity measures continue.

Mass protests against Greece's harsh austerity measures. Demonstrations come amid predictions that unemployment in the country may reach a staggering 30 percent this year.

Maria Kanga, unemployed Greek worker, said, "We cannot afford to buy even our children's shoes. We don't have enough money to get by - for our everyday necessities."

On February 20th, demonstrators took to a nationwide strike led by the two biggest unions in the country - GESEE and ADEDY, which represent both private and public sector workers. The strike is expected to disrupt flights, halt ferries and put the entire countries public service on hold. Police had to shut down the subway system and close off streets around Syntagma square, where the protests took place.

Professor Savas Robolis, Panteion University, said, "In a span of just 36 months, the standard of living for the average Greek worker has declined by at least 50 percent."

The GESEE argues that the labour force has been too badly weakened to pay emergency taxes. According to union researchers, two-thirds of employees in the hammered private sector no longer receive regular pay. People like Maria Kanga are all participating in this nation-wide strike, with the sincere and desperate hope that the situation would turn around.



Posted in: Europe

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