Police storm Acropolis to end blockade

Greek riot police have stormed the Acropolis in central Athens to break up a blockade by culture ministry staff that had this week closed the famous monument. The protesters, fighting against layoffs, had intended to blockade the Acropolis until 31 October.

Reuters

The police broke into the Acropolis perimeter through a side entrance and pursued dozens of protesters who had been clutching the fence.

Tear gas was used to disperse media at the front entrance. Police then evacuated the site, and at least one protester was detained.

The union representing culture ministry staff began the blockade on Tuesday to protest the pending dismissal of 320 employees whose contracts expire at the end of the month.

They also want the state to settle unpaid salaries which they say are worth five million euros.

Greece has seen a wave of protests over austerity measures promised by the government in order to secure a eurozone package to rescue its ailing economy.

The chairman of temporary culture ministry staff, Nikos Hasomeris, had earlier warned the authorities not to attempt to break the blockade by force.

"All our colleagues stand beside us, so the monument will not operate today no matter what happens," he told Mega television.

Short-term ministry staff with renewable contracts, who say they are at the mercy of layoffs, often shut down the Acropolis to demand job security.