The atmosphere was tense outside the Ministry of Administrative Reform this morning, as riot police engaged and clashed with teachers, school wardens and cleaning staff, who were demonstrating against the government’s controversial suspension program.
The police used tear gas to disperse the protesters, who attempted to enter the Ministry and detained 17 people. Amongst those detained was the president of teacher union OLME Themis Kotsifakis. All detainees were taken to the Central Police HQ and were later released.
Mr. Kotsifakis spoke commented on SKAI that 16 teachers and one warden had been detained and “democracy has been abolished”. Mr. Kotsifakis argued that the protesters were not allowed to demonstrate on the sidewalks and did not shut down the street.
Meanwhile, another demonstration has been scheduled for 10am outside the Ministry of Finances, where Mr. Mitsotakis will meet the troika to discuss the 11,000 dismissals for 2014. Later, at 1pm, ADEDY will hold a rally outside the Ministry of Administrative Reform.
