Thousands of Greek taxi drivers march in Athens

Thousands of Greek taxi drivers marched in central Athens on Tuesday to protest against government plans to open up their sector to competition, a key reform prescribed by the EU and the IMF.
More than 3,000 drivers waving Greek flags and holding banners reading "taxis won't be sold out" rallied peacefully outside parliament, where Transport Minister Yannis Ragousis briefed ruling party lawmakers on the reform.
"We won't back down," said 48-year old George Volis. "We bought our licences with sacrifices."
On strike since July 18, taxi unions oppose plans to issue licences for a small fee, which would end the practice of selling them for tens of thousands of euros, saying the reform will further hurt a sector already hit by austerity.
Cab drivers blocked access to ports and airports last week and lined up at toll stations on highways in a protest which risks hurting the key tourism sector as the high season kicks off.
Greece counts on its sun-drenched islands and ancient monuments for an economic recovery as it fights a huge debt crisis and is in recession for a third straight year.
On Sunday, taxi drivers occupied ticket offices at the archaeological site on the Acropolis hill and let in scores of tourists for free.
Liberalising about 135 protected professions to improve lagging competitiveness and boost the economy has been requested by the EU and the IMF as part of a 110 bln euro bailout deal aimed at saving Greece from bankruptcy.
In practice, the opening up of sectors such as pharmacies, tourism and the legal profession has so far been limited, with the government bowing to union demands to keep some regulations in place.
Taxi drivers extended their strike and said they were determined to continue unless the government withdraws its plans. The government has repeatedly urged them to end their strike.
"The taxi strike can no longer be justified," government spokesman Elias Mossialos told Flash radio. "They (taxi owners) must discuss with the government."