Greece Labour Protests Paralyse Public Transport Amid Controversial Law Reforms

GREECE LABOUR LAW PROTESTS BRING PUBLIC TRANSPORT TO A HALT A nationwide strike in Greece on Wednesday brought public transport to a standstill as thousands of workers protested government plans to amend labour laws, allowing extended working hours. The 24-hour strike, called by unions representing civil servants and private sector workers, disrupted numerous public services, including schools, courts, hospitals, and municipalities. Taxis and trains in Athens were unavailable, while buses, the city's subway, tram, and trolley services scaled back operations. Ferries were tied up in port. The strike was marked by protest marches in central Athens and throughout the country around midday. Union leaders argued that the proposed labour law changes would lead to increased working hours, reduced benefits, and decreased job security for workers. "This is a fight for our rights," said Giorgos Mavrikis, general secretary of the ADEDY union, which represents civil servants. "We will not let the government take away our hard-won gains without a struggle." Government officials defended the proposed changes, saying they were necessary to boost economic growth and competitiveness. "The labour market needs flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances," said Labour Minister Giannis Vroutsis. "These reforms aim to make Greece more attractive to investors and businesses." The strike is part of an ongoing debate over the government's plans to amend the labour law, which has been met with resistance from unions and opposition parties. Background: The Greek government has proposed changes to the labour law, allowing employers to extend working hours without prior agreement from employees. Unions argue that this would lead to increased exploitation of workers and undermine their rights. Additional perspectives: "The strike is a necessary measure to protect workers' interests," said Kostas Zouraris, president of the GSEE union, which represents private sector workers. "We understand the need for economic growth, but not at the expense of workers' rights," added Maria Damanaki, an opposition MP from the Movement for Change party. Current status: The strike is ongoing, with no immediate resolution in sight. Union leaders have vowed to continue their protests until the government withdraws its proposed labour law changes. Next developments: A meeting between union representatives and government officials has been scheduled for later this week to discuss the proposed reforms. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*