25.2.13
Those who gathered at the Sunday midday protest at the Megali Panagia junction in Halkidiki characterized the controversial mining investment “golden promises, black dawn”. The police presence was intense, with spot checks on cars and buses headed from all over Greece to the rally taking place early in the day.
Clutching banners and black flags, the protesters expressed their opposition to the “huge financial and environmental scandal” that is taking place in the area. The committee of the Halkidiki and Strymon Gulf protesters has condemned the “destruction of the ancient forest of Skouries, land and livelihood” of local residents, despite scientific reports and the fact that the Council of State’s decision is still pending.
The committee also condemned the “attempt to intimidate and silence that intend to break the morale of all Halkidiki and northern Greece citizens who are against the destruction. The protest, which took place following a series of detainments over the attack against the mining cite, began earlier with a rally at Ierissos and a march towards Megali Panagia.
