Strikes Cause Stoppage in Greek Ports

Posted by Eric Haun May 6, 2016

A 48-hour strike by the Seamen’s Union in Greece is expected to affect all domestic and local ferry routes as well as commercial vessels calling at Piraeus, Aspropyrgos, Eleusis, Pachi and Megara ports for cargo discharging, advises Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS).

The Crew Union of Towage and Salvage has also confirmed participation in the strike which started at 6 a.m. local time May 6 and is scheduled to end at 6 a.m. on May 8. A second 24-hour strike is expected to take place immediately after the first strike, from 6 a.m. on May 8 to 6 a.m. on May 9, ISS said.

The action has been called by the union in response to the government’s planned changes to labor and insurance rights, pensions and retirement ages.

Vessels will not be able to berth, shift or sail from the affected ports during the stoppage period.

A General Strike is also taking place today in Greece which includes public transport employees, hospital personnel, employees at oil installations and journalists.