Prosecutors and police against taxi drivers

The government is toughening its stance on the issue of taxi drivers today, following the decision of the Federation of Taxi Owners to continue their mobilization.

According to information, police and justice will now take action, as taxi drivers rejected the proposal for dialogue by the transport minister Yannis Ragousis. In cases where the smooth operation of museums and archaeological sites, along with convenient access to highways, are obstructed, prosecutors will take action and wherever it is deemed necessary, they will be aided by police forces.

The government's proposal, as expressed by government spokesman Elias Mossialos, was designed so that both sides would utilise the time until the end of August in order to reach a common decision and put a stop to extreme actions. As it appears, the drivers did answer the call, which means that another week of protests lies ahead.

Ragousis seem adamant in his decision to submit proposals before the end of August. At the same time, the Association of Greek Tourist Enterprises has appealed to the Federation of Taxi Owners. This is because thousands of tourists from around the world are suffering daily due to the mobilizations, while cruise lines prefer the Turkish coast to avoid hassling their customers.

Owners have planned a rally for tomorrow at 10am outside the ministry at Mesogeion Street. Yesterday afternoon, they appeared in the courtyard of the ancient theater of Epidaurus, where thousands of people went to watch the third performance of Richard III with Kevin Spacey. They will do the same this week as well. They have also planned similar "visits" to other archaeological sites.

In addition, they obstructed a large cruiser from reaching Irakleio port and held protests in several cities and toll stations across the country.

It is worth noting that Federation president Thimios Lymperopoulos admitted that the oil on Piraeus streets was spilled by taxi owners and although initially they said it was an act of provocation, Lymperopoulos asked yesterday that such mistakes are not repeated in the continuation of the protests.