General Strike in Greece Protesting Austerity Measures

A 24-hour general strike is under way in Greece in protest at the nation’s austerity measures. Flights and ferry services have been canceled, schools, government offices and tourist sites closed, and hospitals are working with reduced staff.

At least 16,000 people have joined protests organized by the main unions in central Athens. The European Commission is discussing ways of propping up banks in Europe to protect them from the Greek crisis.

Thousands of people gathered in central Athens to stage a demonstration outside parliament. Police fired tear gas at small groups of protesters who were throwing stones.

Marco Werman speaks to reporter Menelaos Tzafalias who observed Wednesday’s protests in Athens.