GSEE, the confederation of Greek workers, has announced a 24-hour strike to take place on the 1st of May. The strike is in response to the government’s decision to move the holiday to the 7th of May. A number of individual unions and federations have already announced similar plans, such as PAME.
The Minister of Labor decided to transfer the May 1st holiday on Tuesday, the 7th of May, because this year it lands on the same day as Good Wednesday. According to the ministerial decision, the 7th of May is compulsory holiday for all stores, industries and businesses which normally do not operate on Sundays.
Businesses which legally operate on Sundays and holidays are exempt from the decision. Should any employees work, they are legally entitled to a 75% increase of their day wages.
Metro and maritime workers announce action for May 1st
SELMA, the union representing workers of the Athens Metro, has announced a walkout from the beginning of their shift until 9am. In their announcement they explain that “May the 1st is a strike, not a holiday”, while adding that “we operate for the striking workers, so that they can easily travel and participate in demonstrations, marches and protests.
The Panhellenic maritime worker federation PNO has announced a 24-hour strike of all crews, of all ship categories, which will begin on midnight. PNO noted that their strike is related to the Ministry of Shipping’s bill, which they claim “is the final nail in the coffin of Greek maritime worker’s rights”.
