Greek professionals in anti-austerity street protest

Doctors, lawyers and journalists were among those who went on strike in Greece, on the eve of a national day of action against the latest bout of belt-tightening and reforms.

They protested in front of the finance ministry over tougher tax and social security measures they claim are crippling their professions.

“Young scientists in Greece are being forced to emigrate in order to survive, as here they are taxed 35 percent on the first cent they earn and they’re unable to find a job anyway,” said George Patoulis, President of the Athens Medical Association.

The protest came amid reports of significant progress in talks over the next Greek bailout deal.

Inspectors from the troika of international lenders were said to be close to agreement on most measures to prevent the country from going bankrupt.

Some issues such as labour reform remain unresolved.

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