Greek Unions Stage General Strike On Tuesday

Greece’s two main umbrella unions stage a 24h walkout on Tuesday, protesting against the overhaul in the labor market and pension system.

The strike, taking place in the public and private sector, is set to cause widespread transport disruption, but AFP reports airports will remain open to protect tourism revenues.

The fifth general strike since February against austerity measures aimed at reducing the country΄s massive debt is expected to cause some delays and cancellations but planes will not be grounded,

"Air traffic controllers will not join the strike in order to protect tourism," Angelos Sotiropoulos, head of the air traffic controllers΄ union, told AFP.

The news agency reports that while sailors have not formally joined the strike, ferry connections with Greek islands could be affected due to actions by Communist-affiliated unionists.

Protest demonstrations and marches are planned throughout Tuesday in Athens, Thessaloniki and most cities throughout the country.