Hotel staff threaten Olympics walk-out
Thousands of hotel staff in Athens are threatening to go on strike during next month’s Olympic Games unless they are offered a pay increase, it was reported today.
Around 7,000 workers are expected to stage a one-day walk-out today from premises across the city, with the warning of further action aimed at disrupting the global sporting event.
The Federation of Athens and Piraeus Hotel Employees are calling for increased rates and a special Olympic bonus to be paid to staff during the tournament.
It is thought that the move is in response to offers of bonuses to members of the security forces, the BBC reported.
An association representing hotel owners said today’s strike will not cause serious disruption, but any action during the 16-day event is likely to create huge problems with accommodation booked to capacity.
Hotels across Athens and surrounding areas will be filled to capacity, with several hundred thousand visitors and spectators expected.
