Transport and public services were disrupted across Greece on Tuesday, October 14th, as unions staged a 24-hour strike against government plans to introduce an optional 13-hour workday. This is the second nationwide strike over the issue this month.
The walkout affected public and municipal services and paralyzed ferries and trains (while flights remained unaffected). Urban transport in Athens operated on reduced hours. Protests were scheduled throughout the day in the Greek capital and in other major cities.
The government has said the proposed 13-hour workday, to be voted on Wednesday, October 15th, is optional. However, opposition parties and unions argue that workers could face layoffs if they refuse longer hours. A previous general strike in response to the same proposals took place on October 1st.
Labour Minister Niki Kerameus told SKAI TV that “This (law) strengthens employees and facilitates businesses,” adding that it expands benefits for working mothers and allows staff to negotiate a four-day working week.
Currently, the legal working day in Greece is eight hours, with the possibility of paid overtime. The country has already legalized a six-day working week in certain high-demand sectors, including tourism.
