Greece has introduced new temporary support measures for workers on the popular tourist island of Santorini, which has been experiencing earthquakes for the second week in a row.
According to Reuters, authorities have closed schools on Santorini and neighboring islands, deployed rescuers and the army, and more than 11,000 people, including many seasonal workers, have left the island. Greece’s Ministry of Labor stated that steps are being taken to preserve jobs and provide financial assistance to workers and businesses on Santorini, which is one of Europe’s most popular resorts.
Under the new measures, businesses are allowed to suspend labor contracts until March 3, but layoffs are prohibited. After this period, companies must maintain the same number of jobs. Workers whose contracts have been suspended will be eligible for state payments of up to 534 euros for 30 days.
On Monday, the union of food and tourism workers (POEET) expressed concern about the insufficient protection of workers. The statement noted that for almost two weeks, businesses have been deciding on their own whether to suspend operations, leaving hundreds of employees without income and without paid insurance contributions.
Seismic activity in the Santorini and Amorgos areas has intensified since January 26. Due to frequent tremors, which may be precursors to a major earthquake, thousands of tourists and locals have left the island. Schools were closed on Santorini, and emergency services were deployed. On February 10, the island was hit by a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 5.3.
