There have been ugly scenes in Athens as violence erupted during Greece’s fifth general strike since February.

Clashes broke out as parliament pondered pension reform aimed at tackling the national debt crisis.
Sticks, bottles and stones were thrown by protesters. Riot police responded with teargas. Some reports spoke of neo-Nazis being involved in the unrest.

About 10,000 people took part in mainly peaceful marches across the capital during the 24 hour nationwide stoppage. That is well down from the 50,000 who gathered in Athens at the peak of public protests in early May.

Unions are determined to stop the austerity overhaul which would raise the retirement age, cut
benefits and curtail early pensions.

Transport, schools, hospitals, banks, and the media have all been hit by the walkout. Dozens of domestic flights have been grounded but international services were unaffected.

Copyright © 2012 euronews