Greek seasonal firefighters are organizing a protest rally outside the Parliament at 10 am on Friday, condemning the riot police (MAT) for attacking them while they were demanding all-year employment contracts during their Thursday rally outside the climate crisis and civil protection ministry.
The Thursday rally resulted in the occupation of the building, with protestors also clashing with riot police standing guard outside the ministry on Kifissias Avenue.
The firefighters claim the police used excessive force resulting in the injuries of several firefighters.
Notably, three of those who were detained at police headquarters (GADA) had to be transferred to hospital due to serious injuries.
According to the Greek Police, after representatives of the firefighters met with ministry officials they did not vacate the ministry within the allotted time, following a prosecutor’s order.
The police claimed that the individuals who remained in the building caused damage and threw objects at the officers, injuring at least one policeman.
Additionally, as reported after being removed from the ministry premises, the individuals remained in the surrounding area, obstructing public transportation and impeding pedestrian traffic.
Meanwhile, members of the opposition parties demanded for an immediate and thorough briefing from the government about the incidents outside the ministry of climate crisis and civil protection.
They condemned the riot police for an unprovoked attack and criticized the arrests of both the protesting firefighters, who were calling for 12-month contracts, and journalists covering the demonstration.
