Greek port stoppages

The action is being taken by the Crew Union of Towage Companies in Greece and consists of daily four hour stoppages on both the 22 and 23 October, between 0600 and 1000 local time.

The Crew Union of Towage Companies in Greece said the action is being taken in protest of the planned privatisation of Piraeus and Thessaloniki ports.

During the two stoppage periods, vessels will not be able to berth or sail from ports or terminals. ISS Greece said it currently is working with its clients to minimise delays and will keep its clients updated.

Following the first day of stoppages, ISS told Port Strategy that only Piraeus tugs appear to have participated in the strike action.

But both Piraeus and Eleusis ports ceased towing operations between 0600 and 1000 Lt today and the same situation is expected for tomorrow.

ISS said that all other ports currently has towage service availability working normally with no delays including Thessaloniki, Theodoroi, Mykonos, Patra, Kos.

Apparently all vessels scheduled to arrive at the ports have already been informed and they have amended their ETAs accordingly.

Chinese state-run shipping company Cosco Group, APM Terminals and International Container Terminal Series (ICTSI) have until 30 October to submit binding bids for a 51% stake in the port operator OLP.

Not all port workers are happy. PS reported earlier in the month that some had threatened to block the sale with protests and strikes over fears of job cuts.