A week-long strike by fuel tanker drivers in Greece has led to lengthy queues of motorists. It is estimated that three quarters of the country’s service stations have little or no fuel.

The tanker drivers want an increase in the state-regulated fees they are paid for delivering fuel, on the basis that the high price of oil has raised their costs. They also want changes to their pension contribution system.

As a good-will gesture, the drivers allowed some deliveries on Monday, but it made little difference. One man said: “I’ve been waiting for half an hour, because I have to, but there is a three kilometre long queue of cars and there are also people with petrol cans, there are three different queues for some very expensive petrol.”

The strike has also caused a shortage of fuel for ships and ferries and prevented fruit and vegetables from reaching markets and shops. The Greek government is hoping ongoing talks with the drivers will settle the dispute.

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