Greek Unions Strike, Disrupting Flights, Services
Labor unions GSEE and ADEDY in Greece called a second general strike today to protest government policies - particularly new taxes. The strike disrupted flights to and from Athens, and halted public transportation in the city to all locations other than a strike rally attended by over 50,000 people. Protestors rallied in other Greek cities too, including Thessaloniki and Heraklion. The new taxes reflect government efforts to meet budget demands in light of slower growth and inflation worries, but have provoked significant protest from unions over concern for worker incomes. Further protests are expected from small business owners and shopkeepers too.
See "Greek Unions Strike, Disrupting Flights, Services", Maria Petrakis and Natalie Weeks, Bloomberg News, October 20, 2008