Minoan Ferries Halted By Labor Dispute

Domestic ferry sailings by Minoan Lines from key Greek ports were virtually paralyzed for a fifth day by an industrial dispute between seamen and shipowners over overtime back pay. Talks between Merchant Marine Minister Christos Papoutsis and PNO representatives and shipowners on Monday failed to resolve the dispute. Hundreds of passengers have been stranded on Greek islands, while many others have not been able to sail to and from the busy ports of Piraeus, west of Athens, and Rafina, northeast of the Greek capital. The Panhellenic Seamen's Union (PNO) launched its strike action last Thursday, claiming some 35 million drachmas ($88,340) in overtime back payments to Minoan employees. Minoan denies that it owes any money.