Train worker stoppage taking place today in protest response to massive crash - 3 day mourning period declared
The strike follows Tuesday night’s train crash in central Greece, the worst in the country’s history, that left at least 43 dead and dozens injured, some seriously.
“The disdain of all governments across time have shown for Greek Railways resulted in the tragedy at Tempi. Unfortunately, our longstanding demands for hiring permanent personnel, better training and, above all, modern safety technology, always end up in the trash can,” a union statement says.
“The next day is a day of reflection and mourning for our unjustly perished colleagues,” the statement adds.
The entire STASY announcement "STA.SY informs the passenger public, that on Thursday, March 2, 2023, Lines 2 & 3 of the Metro will not operate from 6 am to midnight, following the sudden decision of the union of workers late on Wednesday night, to declare a strike mobilization. Line 1 of the Piraeus - Kifisia Metro and the Tram will operate normally. We apologize in advance to the passenger public for the inconvenience and difficulties they will encounter in their travels."
In related news, a group of approximately 1,000 people clashed with riot police outside the headquarters of Hellenic Train in Athens on Wednesday evening. The demonstration was organized by student groups and collectives
The police used tear gas and flashbang grenades to repel the crowd, with the demonstration moving on towards parliament. They marched to Syntagma Square from Hellenic Train's offices on Sigrou Avenue, after smashing some of the company's front windows there. At Syntagma Square, protesters clashed with police a second time. Tear gas was used by police against protesters.
Traffic in central Athens was later restored.
Morevoer, the Greek government decided on Wednesday to hold a 3-day official mourning following the deadliest train collision in the country’s history.
During the mourning period, the Greek flag will fly at half-mast in all public buildings, while all public celebrations are cancelled.
