It is seldom I have sympathy for the Government of countries. All too often we hear of corruptness and broken promises. However governing any country does require the co-operation of the people and as they are the same people who voted you in one would expect some basic support for policies that have to be introduced. I therefore do "feel" for George Papandreou, not that I am supportive of all his actions but because no matter what he does try and do there appears to be an inbred stubbornness in Greece to cause disruption.
Now I am not against the right for peaceful demonstration, but the whole world is aware of the financial issues here in Greece....oh except for the Greeks of course!
Well its January, so the annual strike and disruption planned for the end of the month will be blockades by farmers and their tractors. Its happens every year just after olive harvest, but just before main growing season. Now if I was cynical I would say at this time of year farmers get bored and want an outing with their mates and tractors!!!! Any excuse will do.
Then of course next Thursday is the Pan Educational Rally to mark the anniversary of the murder of Nick Temponeras by right wing youth extremists occupying a school in Patra. It occurred 20 years ago, most of the marchers will not have even been born then. I see this as an odd way to remember a school teacher, risking more civil unrest by marching through the streets. At the same time you would think current teachers would want to set an example to the youth; but no, the teachers unions are bring them out calling for a work stoppage so they can join in !
Indeed hardly a day goes by without some work stoppage somewhere in Greece, more often than not in the capital, Athens. If ever there was a country that now needs firm leadership and control of its unions, Greece is the one. Perhaps Mr Papandreou should plan a visit to Margaret Thatcher before its too late, because he's clearly getting dizzy by "turning" in all directions.
