Protesters, Police Clash near Greek Parliament

Protesters clash with riot police during a demonstration to the Greek Parliament in Athens, Greece, 23 February 2011. Photo by EPA/BGNES

A rally by thousands of angry workers near the Greek Parliament in Athens, protesting against austerity measures, has resulted in police using tear gas to disperse the stone-throwing demonstrators.

The 24-hour general strike has paralyzed public transport. More than 100 flights have been canceled.

Many schools have closed and hospitals have reduced their services. Small businesses have also joined the strike, closing many local shops.

This is the first major labor protest in Greece this year. It was triggered by the government's decision to stick to its austerity measures, which were demanded under the terms of the country's international bail-out.

Last year, Greece received a EUR 110 B bail-out from the European Union and the International Monetary Fund.

In order to return the debt, Greek PM George Papandreou has decided to cut spending and raise taxes.

We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!