Two years after the Tempi tragedy: nationwide strikes and commemorations. Request for delayed announcement of the results of the investigation and justice, but no political games.
General strike on Friday, February 28, 2025
On February 28, 2025, Greece will mark two years since the tragic Tempi train collision, which claimed the lives of 57 individuals. Commemoration events, protests, and a nationwide strike are scheduled across the country.
The significant turnout is expected as people unite to honour the victims and support their families’ quest for justice.
Shops and businesses will close in deference to the events, and various trade unions are backing the general strike.
The focus is on demanding accountability, improving transport safety, and ensuring public services are safeguarded.
Participation in the Strike
The General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) plays a vital role in this movement, calling for accountability and enhancing transport safety measures.
It stands firmly with the Association of the Victims’ Families, urging all citizens to partake in the protests.
Alongside GSEE, the Civil Servants’ Confederation has also called for a 24-hour strike, with a wide array of professional groups joining the effort.
Participation will include representatives from the Panhellenic Maritime Federation, railway workers, air traffic controllers, taxi drivers, lawyers, teachers, doctors, merchants, artists, and students.
Educational unions have encouraged their members to join the movement, although the Ministry of Education has announced that schools will remain open and attendance will be monitored.
In the judicial sector, the Association of Judges and Prosecutors has proposed a brief suspension of court sessions to allow for participation.
Additionally, pharmacies have planned a three-hour work stoppage to join the cause.
The Greek Medical Association has urged doctors to provide free medical services to young individuals aged 16-30 during this time.
Cultural venues, including theatres and nightclubs, will show their support by closing down for the day.
The Greek Actors’ Association has pledged to strike, and workers from the Acropolis Museum are expected to join in, having formally requested the Minister of Culture’s support.
The hospitality sector is also participating through symbolic actions, such as extinguishing lights for 57 seconds, arranging 57 empty chairs adorned with candles, and displaying messages of mourning and remembrance.
Suspension of University Activities
Several universities nationwide will cancel classes to honour the victims.
The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, which witnessed many young victims, will lower flags to half-mast in a gesture of mourning.
Impact on Public Transport
Transport workers have collectively decided to participate in the strike.
Although urban transport will largely halt, services on fixed-track systems and taxis will run during protest hours to support demonstrators.
Unions representing Metro, Electric Railway, and Tram workers will follow a 24-hour strike policy. However, they will operate from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm to assist those attending the rallies.
Buses and trolley services will also cease operation for the day, though privately operated services in Eastern and Western Attica are expected to continue.
The unions for these public transport modes are vocalising their demands for safer and more modern transport systems, calling for a mass turnout at Syntagma Square.
All train services, including the suburban rail, will be suspended due to a full-day strike from Hellenic Train and TRAINOSE.
This disruption reflects the widespread calls for accountability in the wake of the Tempi train crash.
Air travel will be significantly affected as the Greek Air Traffic Controllers Association has pledged to participate in the strike, resulting in the grounding of all scheduled flights.
Similarly, the maritime sector will also be impacted, with ships remaining docked as confirmed by the Panhellenic Maritime Federation.
Public Transport Adjustments in Thessaloniki
In Thessaloniki, the public transport authority will adjust services to operate a limited number of 57 buses, which include accessible options for disabled individuals.
The night line to the airport (N1) will remain available, ensuring some level of mobility for those affected by the strike.
Mass Demonstrations Planned
Selective rallies are set to take place in over 300 cities across Greece and even internationally, with more locations being added as the day approaches.
These gatherings will not only commemorate the victims of the Tempi train disaster but will also serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing quest for justice and accountability in the wake of such tragedies.
Request for Delay in Investigation Findings
Relatives of the victims from the tragic railway accident in Tempi have formally requested a postponement of the announcement of the findings from the National Organisation for the Investigation of Air and Railway Accidents and Safety (EOADASAM).
This request stems from the public mourning and the upcoming demonstrations set for Friday, 28 February.
The families, represented by their lawyer, Lukas Apostolidis, sent a letter to the president of EOADASAM urging that “in light of the current circumstances, the national mourning, and the participation of thousands in protests supporting the relatives and calling for the truth, the findings should not be disclosed tomorrow.”
The appeal for postponement outlines their rationale: “Dear President, I am the attorney for the families of both the deceased and the injured in the Tempi tragedy. We are all striving, each from our own positions, to illuminate every aspect and achieve justice.
Already, the European prosecutor’s office and the investigating authorities of the Larissa appeals court have issued 66 charges concerning serious felonies.
The investigative work is nearing its conclusion, with only a few (2-3) cases pending for the defendants to make their statements.”
Despite this progress, considerable uncertainties remain, even two years after the accident, particularly regarding the presence of any flammable chemicals on the freight train involved.
This is a critical issue for the families, who are eager to uncover the truth about the events that cost 57 lives.
Concerns regarding the fires that consumed the victims and the reasons behind the tragedy continue to exist, with various interpretations and conclusions suggested.
The relatives and their advocates find that their concerns have not been met with satisfactory answers.
Mere probabilities and assumptions do little to ease their troubled minds.
The organisation is expected to exhaust all evidence in its investigation to uncover the truth behind the tragic incident.
The families await the technical report from the authorities regarding the authenticity of the three videos submitted two years later, which have raised numerous questions.
In light of these significant emotional and societal factors, the call for a delay appears justified, reflecting the deep sorrow and need for proper closure for those affected by this tragedy.
The request for a postponement of the findings highlights the ongoing quest for transparency and accountability in the aftermath of a disaster that deeply impacted many lives.
Justice, not political games
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will address his cabinet this week, responding to the strong public call for accountability related to the tragic train crash in Tempe on February 28.
Pressure is mounting from citizens demanding to know the truth and ensure justice is served following this devastating event that claimed the lives of many, primarily young individuals.
Mass protests are set for Friday, coinciding with the two-year anniversary of the disaster, bringing together various social groups united in their demand for justice.
Mitsotakis plans to emphasise his government’s commitment to transparency while denouncing the opposition for what he perceives as attempts to politicise the victims’ suffering.
He is keen to differentiate between genuine civic engagement and the opportunistic exploitation of this tragedy.
His administration will also uphold the right to peaceful protest, recognising the importance of public expression in such trying times.
Former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras has voiced his criticism regarding the current government’s handling of the situation, highlighting that families deserve to know the full truth and see those responsible held accountable.
He stated, “The government must not be in conflict with grieving families and citizens showing solidarity.”
This sentiment resonates with many who believe that accountability is crucial for healing.
In contrast, government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis reassured that the administration has no intention of conflicting with the families of victims and is committed to supporting peaceful demonstrations.
Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias acknowledged that many demonstrators are from the ruling New Democracy party, showing that the issue transcends party lines.
Meanwhile, the opposition, led by PASOK’s Nikos Androulakis, is pursuing parliamentary measures aimed at uncovering the government’s role in the incident and plans to introduce new policies targeting railway safety.
SYRIZA, another opposition party, has expressed intentions to participate in the protests and to call for a more extensive investigation regarding the former deputy minister involved.
The political landscape remains charged as the government seeks to maintain stability while addressing the significant public outcry.
The forthcoming protests will be a critical reflection of public sentiment and the government’s responsiveness to this lingering tragedy, highlighting the urgent need for justice and accountability, as emphasised by Mitsotakis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What major improvements in safety standards have been made since the Tempi tragedy?
Following the Tempi tragedy, numerous changes in safety protocols have been established.
Regulatory bodies have introduced stricter guidelines for transportation safety, with an emphasis on maintenance and training.
Enhanced monitoring systems and regular audits have also been implemented to ensure compliance.
How have trade unions affected workplace safety reforms after the national strikes?
Labour unions have played a crucial role in advocating for improved workplace safety post-strikes.
They have pushed for stronger regulations and worked closely with government agencies to secure commitments towards safer working environments.
Their collective voice has been essential in raising awareness and demanding accountability.
How have annual memorials influenced public awareness and policy after the Tempi incident?
Annual memorials for the victims of the Tempi tragedy have significantly increased public awareness.
These commemorations serve as reminders of the need for continued advocacy for safety reforms.
They foster a collective memory that prompts policymakers to remain vigilant in addressing safety concerns.
What impact has the government’s response to the Tempi tragedy had on later industrial actions?
The government’s handling of the Tempi tragedy has directly influenced subsequent industrial actions.
Many workers and unions felt the initial response was inadequate, which intensified calls for strikes.
Discontent with the perceived lack of accountability has often led to organised protests seeking better protection and justice.
How has public opinion developed regarding the Tempi tragedy over the last two years?
Public sentiment concerning the Tempi tragedy has evolved significantly.
Initially marked by grief and anger, the public’s focus has shifted towards demanding systemic change.
Many individuals now seek long-term solutions to prevent similar incidents, reflecting a desire for accountability and reform.
What are the lasting effects on sectors impacted by the strikes initiated after the Tempi event?
The sectors affected by the strikes have experienced both immediate and enduring consequences.
Many industries have faced operational disruptions and economic losses.
In the long term, there is a heightened focus on safety standards. This may lead to increased costs but is expected to improve worker conditions and prevent future tragedies.
