ATHENS, Greece, March 8 (UPI) -- Concern over planned government pension reforms in Greece prompted a series of protests and strikes, local media reported.
The Kathimerini newspaper of Athens reported Saturday that a day earlier, a group of seniors blocked train service on the Athens electric railway, and a strike at the state-run Public Power Corporation left parts of Greece with no electricity.
Additionally, trash collectors began a six-day strike Friday, and the newspaper said more protests and strikes are scheduled.
The protest came after Conservatives this week announced plans to merge pension funds and reduce early retirement benefits, hoping to head off a financial crisis in the country's pension systems.
Conservatives argue the changes are needed to prevent the national pension system from collapsing in 15 years.
"The measures taken by the government and the changes taking place are, in my view, moderate and necessary," said Environment Minister Giorgos Souflias after meeting with Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis.
