Greece Paralyzed by Biggest Strike since First Bailout

World | October 19, 2011, Wednesday // 11:27
Bulgaria: Greece Paralyzed by Biggest Strike since First Bailout Greek journalists march during a protest in Athens, Greece, 18 October 2011. Greek journalists protested against government policies and new austerity measures that affect their profession. Photo by EPA/BGNES

Greece has grounded to a halt after the start of a general strike, described by trade unions as the biggest since the country was forced to take its first financial bailout from the EU and IMF eighteen months ago.

The 48-hour strike has cancelled flights, halted most public services and shut down offices and shops.

It comes as parliament prepares to vote on the latest round of austerity measures, including more tax hikes, pay cuts and job losses.

The strike for Wednesday and Thursday has been called by the two big unions that cover public and private sector workers. It has shut down government departments, businesses, offices and stores.

This will be the first time that small business owners and shopkeepers will take part in a strike action.

Legislators are voting on two bills on Wednesday and Thursday, which envisage measures for higher taxes, further cuts to pensions and salaries and the suspension of collective labour agreements.

They will also suspend 30,000 public servants on reduced pay and introduce a new civil service salary system.

Greece says it needs the next USD 11 B instalment from the first package of bailout loans agreed last year or it will run out of money in November.

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Tags: bailout, greece, IMF, EU, Strike

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